“Will get sent to the front now” – Ukrainian Tennis Federation comes under fire as case opens against 16-year-old Yelyzaveta Kotliar for shaking Russian opponent’s hand at the Australian Open

The outrage surrounding the case of Yelyzaveta Kotliar continues to only grow. The teenager had not imagined what she would land in while boarding the flight to Melbourne. The 16-year-old who lost in the first round of the 2024 Australian Open Junior Singles is now facing a case by her own national federation.

The case has been allegedly opened concerning her post-match actions. Up against Russian player Vlada Mincheva, the Ukrainian had a brain-fade moment. As the war between the two nations continues, Ukrainians have refused to shake hands at the net if they are playing any Russian or Belarusian athlete.

Kotliar possibly forgot the custom adopted by her compatriots and innocently went ahead and shook hands with Mincheva. The incident spread like wildfire on the internet with the Ukrainian Tennis Federation (UTF) reportedly calling it an ‘unpleasant incident’.

As per multiple reports, the teen now has a case opened against her for her actions at the Grand Slams. This comes in light of the Ukraine-Russia War that’s been going on for more than 700 days now.

Action by the Ukrainian Tennis Federation against Yelyzaveta Kotliar has fans divided

As the incident came to light on 21st January 2024, reactions have been pouring in around it. Netizens were divided on the subject. While many felt it was wrong on the Federation’s part, many opposed the player for her actions.

The official proceedings are yet to be made public but that has not stopped people from giving their individual takes on the matter. Some of the anti-UTF tweets are as follows:

There were many however who felt the UTF was correct in questioning the teenager’s intent given the ongoing war. With efforts being made at international stages to oppose the participation of Russian and Belarusian players, the image of two teens shaking hands at a Grand Slam hurts their agenda.

Kotliar’s family has issued just one statement so far. The Federation has not officially released any statement apart from the much-reported comment on the incident. How things play out for Kotliar and her young career, only time will tell.

In case you missed it:

• WATCH: Daniil Medvedev, who often gives a hard time to his box, sends coach Gilles Cervara kisses after beating Hubert Hurkacz at the Australian Open
• “I don’t care what your name is,” Carlos Alcaraz to have a difficult time against Alexander Zverev’s biggest threat feels Mats Wilander ahead of their Australian Open clash
• Do follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
• Follow FirstSportz on WhatsApp Channel

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW