Andreeva Defeats Kostyuk in Tense French Open Semifinal Without Handshake

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Andreeva Defeats Kostyuk in Tense French Open Semifinal Without Handshake

1 hour ago

News sources:

LEMONDE

REUTERS

ALJAZEERA

Andreeva Defeats Kostyuk in Tense French Open Semifinal Without Handshake

Credited from: REUTERS

Mirra Andreeva defeats Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 to reach her first Grand Slam final.
The semifinal featured heightened tensions due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
No traditional handshake or joint photo occurred between the athletes after the match.

Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva reached her maiden Grand Slam final by decisively beating Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 at the French Open. Andreeva seized control from the very beginning, maintaining her grip throughout the match and converting her first match point while serving for the win on June 4, 2026, according to Le Monde and Al Jazeera.

The match was characterized by significant tension stemming from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Standard customs, such as a pre-match handshake and joint photographs, were notably omitted, with Kostyuk walking off quickly post-match, only waving to the crowd, as fans displayed Ukrainian flags, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

Andreeva expressed her nervousness about the matchup, acknowledging Kostyuk's strong season and previous victories over her. "I'm happy I got revenge for the Madrid final, and to reach my first Grand Slam final," Andreeva remarked, reflecting on her emotions leading into the match, according to Reuters and Le Monde.