Kalinskaya Skips Handshake After Ostapenko's Italian Open Win

Jelena Ostapenko secured a quarterfinal spot at the Italian Open by defeating Anna Kalinskaya in a match marked by tension. Ostapenko revealed she anticipated Kalinskaya employing "simulations," such as medical timeouts, to disrupt her play, particularly when falling behind. Kalinskaya did not offer a customary handshake at the match's conclusion, proceeding directly to the umpire.

Ostapenko expressed pride in her ability to manage the match despite Kalinskaya's tactics. She also noted that the absence of a handshake was Kalinskaya's decision. The two-time Grand Slam champion has a history of notable on-court altercations and unusual post-match conduct, including past instances of 'no-look' handshakes and confrontations.

This encounter follows a pattern of Ostapenko's history of contentious interactions with opponents. Previously, she engaged in verbal disputes and unconventional handshakes following losses. Ostapenko has alluded to undisclosed 'reasons' behind these past behaviors, which she has linked to geopolitical events.

The match occurred on Monday, with Ostapenko winning decisively. Kalinskaya's representative did not immediately comment on the situation. Ostapenko, a former French Open champion, previously held a 0-4 head-to-head record against Kalinskaya but expressed confidence in her superior playing ability.