Paula Badosa addressed the frosty handshake with Marta Kostyuk after their Australian Open third-round match, attributing it to the Ukrainian’s personal views rather than anything related to her.
In challenging weather conditions, the Spanish star defeated world No. 18 Kostyuk 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. However, after the match, the two exchanged a notably cold handshake, sparking speculation on social media. Many fans pointed to Badosa’s close friendship with Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka as a possible reason for the frosty exchange.
Since the war in Ukraine began, Kostyuk has been outspoken and, like other Ukrainian players, has refused to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian competitors for almost three years.
In her post-match press conference, Badosa, currently ranked No. 12, acknowledged that the war in Ukraine likely influenced Kostyuk’s behavior but also suggested that the tension could stem from frustration over the match itself.
Badosa: The frosty handshake wasn’t about me
“No, it’s just her,” Badosa explained. “I think it’s a mix of things—her stance on the Ukraine situation and everything that’s happening, which she’s been very vocal about. I’m not involved in that, honestly. I think it’s partly that and also because it was a tough match. The conditions were difficult for both of us, so I believe it was a combination of everything, but I don’t think I had anything to do with it.”
This match marked their fifth meeting, with Badosa securing her fourth victory over Kostyuk.
Badosa will now face world No. 55 Olga Danilovic in the Australian Open round-of-16. Danilovic recently stunned 2024 US Open runner-up Jessica Pegula to advance.
