Tennis Showdown: Kostyuk vs Kasatkina

Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk beats Daria Kasatkina at the Italian Open and praises her opponent's courage in criticizing Russia.

Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk praised Daria Kasatkina's courage after their match at the Italian Open. Kostyuk, known for her outspoken stance against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, surprised many by shaking hands with Kasatkina after beating her 6-4, 6-2 in the second round.

Kostyuk respected Kasatkina's decision to speak out against Russia's actions, acknowledging her bravery. Kasatkina, who has represented Australia after previously playing for Russia, has been vocal about her opposition to the war and has also been open about her personal life, coming out as gay in a context where LGBTQ+ rights are limited in Russia.

Marta Kostyuk, ranked 27th in the world, is set to face Canadian opponent Leylah Fernandez, ranked 26th, in the third round of the Italian Open 2025. This match will take place on May 11 at the Foro Italico in Rome, Italy, on an outdoor clay surface. Given their current rankings and form, Kostyuk is considered a slight favorite to win, with odds of -210, implying a 67.7% chance of victory. Fernandez, on the other hand, has odds of +160, translating to a 38.5% chance of winning.

Match Details:

• Tournament: Italian Open 2025
• Round: Third Round
• Date: May 11, 2025
• Venue: Foro Italico, Rome, Italy
• Surface: Outdoor clay
• Prize Money: $6,831,315

Head-to-Head Record:

This will be the first meeting between Kostyuk and Fernandez, so there's no prior head-to-head record to draw from. However, both players have shown promising form this season.

“Since the beginning of the war, I've chosen not to shake hands with Russian or Belarusian players... but when someone not only tells the truth...calling Russia the aggressor - but also acts on it, that deserves respect,” Kostyuk wrote on Instagram.

“Daria Kasatkina has clearly spoken out against the war and made the decision to give up her Russian sports citizenship. That takes courage - and I acknowledge it. I hope this is not the final step, but part of a deeper commitment.

“I stand with Ukraine. I stand for truth, for dignity, and for those who choose to speak and act - when staying quiet would be easier.”