Aryna Sabalenka took on Lesia Tsurenko at the 2024 Australian Open in a match that concluded without a handshake, which didn't surprise the Belarusian.
Ever since the war in Ukraine broke out, Ukrainian players have refused to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players. The gesture is a move of solidarity from the players with their countrymen who are fighting back home for all of their freedoms.
Sabalenka and Tsurenko have a history. They didn't play a match last year due to the Ukrainian experiencing a panic attack before the match. The Ukranian camp had also attacked Sabalenka before, so this match would always be charged.
It didn't prove a spectacular matchup as Sabalenka cruised 6-0 6-0, but fans at the Rod Laver Arena also didn't get to see a handshake after the match, something that didn't surprise Sabalenka.
That practice has been in place for a while, so she knew it was coming. On top of that, Tsurenko showed her respect by appreciating her level, and that's something that the Belarusian found really nice, even though her opponent didn't shake her hand.
"Well, this situation happening for a long time on tour, and I understand everyone position and I respect everyone's position. She was quite respectful. She said, Great play. She didn't shake my hand, but she was respectful to me, so I appreciate that."
It was nice to see Tsurenko give Sabalenka respect after the match, even though she followed the Ukranian policy. It's not something that's required of the players, but the Federation does appreciate the gesture from their players.
It's also not something that is going to stop happening, as the war is still going on. As for Sabalenka, the defending champion will play already in the second week of the tournament, eyeing to defend her title.
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