Kalynina Hopes Her Successful Journey in the Italian Open Brings Some Joy to Ukraine

Ukrainian player Angelina Kalynina stated that she is "determined to give her war-torn country something to be happy about with her achievements on the tennis court" after defeating Russia's Veronika Kudermetova, ranked 11th, to reach the final of the Italian Open yesterday, Friday. Kalynina's entire family is currently in Kyiv following the Russian attack on Ukraine – which Moscow refers to as a "special military operation" – but they face constant danger, as a bomb recently exploded near a tennis academy run by her parents. The 26-year-old player mentioned that her elderly grandparents also relocated from their family home in the southern city of Nova Kakhovka, currently occupied by Russian soldiers. After her win with scores of 7-5, 5-7, and 6-2, Kalynina expressed, "It is really important to win every match because of what Ukraine is going through. I truly hope to give a little light and maybe some positive emotions to my country. I hope Ukraine can enjoy a bit." Kalynina did not shake hands with her opponent Kudermetova at the net after the match. She explained, "We did not shake hands because the girl is from Russia. It's not a secret why I did not shake her hand, as this country attacked Ukraine." She clarified that "this is a sport; I understand that, but it is also somewhat political. This is not personal. But in general, yes, this is unacceptable."