A volatile French Open crowd turned on Marta Kostyuk following a 6-3, 6-2 first-round loss to Aryna Sabalenka, jeering the Ukrainian player after she failed to shake hands with the winner.
Kostyuk has been among the most outspoken WTA players against the Russian invasion of Ukraine – aided by ally Belarus.
Australian Open winner Sabalenka is concentrating on improving her record in Paris, where she has not surpassed the third round while reaching at least semi-finals at the three other Slams.
The booing of Kostyuk was unexpected, with the No. 39 striding off court while Sabalenka lapped up the love after finally understanding the post-match situation.
“It was a very tough match, I mean tough emotionally,” Sabalenka said.
“I’m sorry guys, I didn’t get it at first, I thought this booing was against me so I was a little surprised.
“But then I felt your support, so thank you so much.”
The politically-sensitive match ended on a first match point, with Kostyuk showered with jeers as she left the court.
“I did not expect it. I have no reaction to it but people should be, honestly, embarrassed,” the No. 39 said.
Sabalenka won 10 of the last 12 games to reach the second round.
2020 semifinalist Nadia Podoroska moved ahead with the loss of just two games against French wildcard Jessika Ponchet.
The Argentine winner is back after nearly a year away due to injury.
Karolina Muchova repeated her 2022 defeat of Maria Sakkari, knocking the Greek eighth seed out in the opening round 7-6 (5), 7-5.
“It was almost like deja vu,” the Czech winner said. “It was almost the same score as last year.
“It’s always a very tough match with Maria. But I held my nerve and managed to finish it in two sets.” ,
Poland’s Magdalena Frech claimed the first victory of the tournament, requiring just 48 minutes to crush China’s Zhang Shuai, 6-1, 6-1.
Canada’s 2012 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez advanced past Pole Magda Linette 6-3, 1-6, 6-3.
Main photo:- Aryna Sabalenka (XXX) milks the crowd after wins first round match against Ukranian Marta Kostyuk who was booed off court by the French “fans” by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
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