Oleksandra Oliynykova refused a post-match handshake with Polina Kudermetova following their first-round match at the Charleston Open. Kudermetova, who switched her nationality from Russia to Uzbekistan late last year, came back to win 3-6, 7-6(1), 6-4. A scoreboard message informed spectators that no handshake would occur.
At the Althea Gibson Club Court, tension was evident as the match concluded. Officials displayed a message stating, “The players will not shake hands at the conclusion of this match. We appreciate your respect for both athletes after the match.” Both players shook hands with the umpire separately before heading to their benches, as noted in a tweet by Christian’s Court on March 31, 2026. Kudermetova had known of Oliynykova’s position beforehand and did not approach the net. Oliynykova, from Kyiv, has maintained a firm stance against acknowledging players linked to Russia amid the ongoing conflict. She previously stated, “This is about humanity, human dignity, and basic human values. I cannot ignore this.” Her position echoes broader debates in tennis over Russian and Belarusian participation. Kudermetova’s citizenship change has stirred family discord. Her sister, Veronika Kudermetova, a former world No. 9, said, “I don’t approve of her choice; she didn’t consult with anyone; it’s her personal choice. I believe her motivation... is both financial and a desire to qualify for the Olympics.” Despite the off-court issues, Kudermetova mounted a comeback from two points from defeat in the second set. The Uzbek qualifier advances to face No. 9 seed Leylah Fernandez. Oliynykova, ranked world No. 71, continues her push on tour after a Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open.
