Context:

The tension between Yulia Putintseva and Maria Sakkari escalated following their match at the Bad Homburg Open, with Sakkari criticizing Putintseva's handshake as disrespectful. Sakkari, who won the match 7-5, 7-6(6), confronted Putintseva, telling her that 'nobody likes you' and emphasizing the importance of eye contact during a handshake. In response, Putintseva posted on Instagram, defending her handshake style and dismissing Sakkari's comments. The altercation intensified when Putintseva slapped Sakkari's hand, leading to a verbal exchange and a curtsy from Putintseva. Despite the incident, Sakkari mentioned her respect for Putintseva as a player and is preparing for her next match against Ekaterina Alexandrova.

Dive Deeper:

• Yulia Putintseva and Maria Sakkari had a heated exchange after their match at the Bad Homburg Open, which Sakkari won in straight sets, 7-5, 7-6(6). The tension arose from Putintseva's handshake, which Sakkari found disrespectful and lacking proper etiquette.

• Sakkari confronted Putintseva post-match, criticizing her for not making eye contact during their handshake and telling her 'nobody likes you'. This moment was caught on the broadcast and gained significant attention on social media.

• Putintseva responded to the incident by posting on Instagram, expressing indifference to Sakkari's comments and defending her handshake style as typical of most women, contrasting it with a 'hugging protocol' she attributed to some men.

• The confrontation escalated when Putintseva slapped Sakkari's hand after the match. Sakkari began a verbal exchange, to which Putintseva responded with a curtsy, further intensifying the situation.

• In her post-match comments, Sakkari downplayed the likelihood of future camaraderie with Putintseva, but maintained that she respects her as a player. She is now focusing on her upcoming match in the tournament against Ekaterina Alexandrova.