Washington crowds will be forewarned there will be no handshake as Wimbledon semi-finalist Elina Svitolina takes on Victoria Azarenka of Belarus in the Washington first round.
With Ukrainians refusing contact with opponents from invading nations Russia and ally Belarus, American spectators will be advised with an announcement that no handshake will be forthcoming.
The plan is designed to prevent some of the jeering that marred Roland Garros matches between players from the countries involved in the Russian invasion.
Svitolina beat Azarenka this month in the Wimbledon fourth round.
“After our match at Wimbledon, the WTA came out with the statement that there would be no handshake between the Ukrainian, Russian and Belarusian players,” the Ukrainian said.
“I also had a talk with Steve Simon (WTA president) and he told me that they will announce before our match that there will be no handshake.
“So I’m happy with that.”
Main photo:- Roland Garros 2023 Elina Svitolina refuses to shake hands with Aryna Sabalenka (BEL) after quarter final match by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
