Teary Kostyuk praises Aussie over Russia stance ahead of Andreeva clash

Marta Kostyuk has advanced to her first Grand Slam semifinal, achieving a significant career milestone with an emotional victory over fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina. Following her on-court success, Kostyuk directed sharp criticism towards Russian players who have remained silent regarding the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

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There is a way if you don't agree.

Kostyuk specifically addressed the argument that Russian athletes refrain from speaking out due to potential repercussions at home. She countered this by stating, "There is a way if you don't agree." She pointed to individuals who have left Russia and distanced themselves from their country's actions, suggesting that physical location is not a barrier to expressing dissent. "I don't think [Daria Kasatkina] lives in Russia anyways, but the majority of players don't live in Russia. There is nothing that's stopping you if this is something you don't believe in," Kostyuk asserted. She believes that after four years of conflict, players have made their allegiances clear.

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I don't think [Daria Kasatkina] lives in Russia anyways, but the majority of players don't live in Russia. There is nothing that's stopping you if this is something you don't believe in.

Her comments came in response to questions about Russian players, including Mirra Andreeva, who is Kostyuk's next opponent. Andreeva had previously stated that she focuses solely on the game and avoids political discussions. Kostyuk, however, found this stance unacceptable. "They are all grown-ups. They know what they're talking about. They know what's going on. They have phones. They have Instagram. They have news," Kostyuk said, emphasizing the accessibility of information. "I wish there was some more clear stance on what's going on, especially when your country is killing other people."

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After four years, I think they've made it very clear whose side they are on.

Kostyuk's victory over Svitolina was dedicated to her compatriots, occurring on a night when Russia launched extensive drone and missile attacks across Ukraine, causing civilian casualties. Kostyuk had previously revealed the emotional toll of the war, sharing that her family home in Kyiv was nearly hit by a missile. Despite the personal challenges, Kostyuk, who is currently the best clay-court player this season, leads Andreeva 2-0 in their head-to-head tour encounters.

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For me it doesn't matter who I play. I really try to play against the ball that is coming at me. Usually it doesn't matter to me who I'm playing against, so I'm trying to really focus on the game and on the game plan.