Ukraine’s Svitolina won 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (11/9) after 2h46 thrilling moves, marking the quarterfinals with world number one Iga Swiatek. In the end, as usual, Svitolina did not shake hands with her Russian or Belarusian opponents in protest of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Azarenka, raising her hand to Svitolina, apparently in a gesture of respect, left the room. court to the sound of whistles. “It wasn’t fair. It is what it is. What can I do?” said Azarenka. “I didn’t do anything wrong, but I can’t control the crowd. I’m not sure a lot of people realized what was going on. But if people just start focusing on handshakes or a very drunk crowd, the end, it is a shame.”

Svitolina and her Ukrainian colleagues refused to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian rivals at the recent French Open. But then Svitolina and Marta Kostyuk were booed by the Paris crowd for their attitude after losing to world number two Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka. At the US Open last year, Kostyuk only touched his racket after losing to Azarenka.

Svitolina believes the booing could end if the tennis authorities issue a statement explaining the position of the Ukrainian players. “That’s how it was with me in Paris. It was also unfair,” said Svitolina. “I have said several times that until the Russian troops leave Ukraine and we do not get our territories back, we will not shake hands. So I have a clear statement.”

Despite the controversy, Svitolina described the victory as the “second happiest moment” of her life, after the birth of her daughter. “I think this is the second happiest moment of my life after the birth of our daughter,” says Svitolina, who is married to French tennis player Gael Monfils. “When I was on the floor I heard you cheering for me and I almost wanted to cry.”

victory for Ukraine

“I know that many people in my country look at me and support me. I also feel responsible,” he added. “When I play against Russians and Belarusians, I feel more pressure because I have to win. That’s why it’s very important to get these kinds of wins. In my way, it’s important to bring this victory, a small victory, to Ukraine .”

The 28-year-old Svitolina only returned to the circuit in April, after her maternity leave. He reached the last 16 of consecutive tournaments, having also reached the quarterfinals of the French Open.

“When I started playing again I didn’t think I would be here. I didn’t think I would play so well on grass,” he added. “I really enjoy the environment, this opportunity. I am very grateful for the opportunity to play here.”