Athletistic/Tennis. Tennis fans have expressed their opinion on Elina Svitolina’s explanation of why she refuses to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players. Some fans think there’s nothing wrong with the Ukrainian not wanting to shake hands with tennis players from Russia and Belarus, while others don’t share that sentiment.

Elina Svitolina reached the round of 16 at Roland-Garros 2023 with a three-set victory over Anna Blinkova on Friday, 2-6, 6-2, 7-5. And then she will again have a match against a Russian rival in the 1/8 finals – with Daria Kasatkina.

In a press release after winning the third round, Svitolina explained that she refused to shake hands with Russians and Belarusians in solidarity with her country’s government.

His answer provoked a strong reaction from tennis fans, some of whom understood his position and welcomed it positively. Others slammed the 28-year-old, saying politics and sport shouldn’t be mixed and calling Svitolina a ‘racist’.

“I can’t believe how big the controversy is for people who don’t shake hands.”

“Elina needs to understand that the players are obviously not politicians or army soldiers, so her racist behavior towards them is absolutely unnecessary.”
“If their opinions are so strong, why don’t they refuse to play against the Russians? Why is it okay for them to play against the Russians, but not end the game with a handshake.”

“Why are Ukrainian athletes like this. You are a professional, stop mixing politics and sport. They are two different things.”
“It’s a great answer. Elina was very clear about the bans and that she would support Ukraine’s policy on this issue, and explained why. If we are not happy with this policy, we shouldn’t ask about him.”
“So beautifully said. I’m so glad she brings good energy and perspective to the situation instead of going crazy all the time.”

“An understandable point of view from Elina Svitolina. I don’t understand how anyone can be upset about this.”

  • Svitolina explained why she didn’t shake hands with Blinkova at Roland Garros

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