Oleksandra Oliynykova refused to take part in pre-match pleasantries with her Transylvania Open opponent Anna Bondar because she played in the controversial North Palmyra Trophies. It is an annual exhibition tournament held in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg, with Bondar entering the inaugural tournament in December 2022, ten months after Russia invaded Ukraine, Oliynykova’s home country.
Explaining the decision not to pose for a joint photo and shake hands with Bondar, who she beat in straight sets 6-4, 6-4, Oliynykova said: “Anna Bondar participated in the North Palmyra Trophies tournament in December 2022 – an event held in Russia in open disregard of international sanctions and restrictions imposed on the aggressor state.
Oliynykova explained: “This is about humanity, human dignity, and basic human values. I cannot ignore this. The global tennis community should not ignore it. Fans should not forget about it. That is why I cannot bring myself to take photos or shake hands with a person who has received money from sources directly linked to the war against my country.”
She added: “I allow for the possibility that Anna made a mistake when she made that decision – although it was an extremely serious one.
“I would be ready to shake her hand in the future if she publicly acknowledges this mistake, apologises to the Ukrainian people, and clearly and directly condemns Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Russia as the aggressor state, and the war criminal [Vladimir] Putin.”
At the Australian Open, Oliynykova wore a t-shirt to her post-match press conference that said: “I need your help to protect Ukrainian women and children, but I can’t talk about it here.” Grand Slam guidelines discourage political statements being made by players.