The match carried added weight given the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia following the 2022 invasion. In line with a pattern seen in recent years, the two players did not shake hands at the net or pose together during the trophy ceremony.
Emotional Scenes on Court
Kostyuk, ranked 23rd in the world, collapsed onto the clay after sealing match point when Andreeva’s final shot sailed long. Overcome with emotion, she covered her face before rising to perform a celebratory backflip to the delight of the crowd.
Across the court, the 19-year-old Andreeva—currently ranked eighth—sat down and buried her face in a towel, visibly emotional after the loss.
In her victory speech, Kostyuk ended with a message that reflected both personal and national pride: “Glory to God and glory to Ukraine.”
A Title Run to Remember
The Madrid triumph marks Kostyuk’s third WTA title—and her second in consecutive weeks following her win in Rouen. It is also her first title at the prestigious WTA 1000 level, a significant milestone in her career.
Her path to the final included notable victories over Jessica Pegula and Linda Noskova, underlining the strength of her campaign.
Against Andreeva, Kostyuk was clinical, converting all four of her break-point opportunities while saving four of six against her.
“It feels unbelievable to stand here right now,” she said. “Up until last year I was 2-7 in Madrid and I never thought I would lift the title here. It was not my favorite tournament for sure, but thanks to the crowd for supporting me.”
Respect Amid Rivalry
Despite the tension surrounding the matchup, Andreeva showed sportsmanship during her remarks.
“I would like to congratulate Marta and her team for the win today and for her season,” she said. “You have won two tournaments in a row, so congrats.” Kostyuk applauded as her opponent spoke.
The final marked Andreeva’s third appearance in a WTA 1000 title match, further confirming her rapid rise on the tour.
Attention Turns to Men’s Final
The tournament concludes on Sunday with the men’s final, where world No. 1 Jannik Sinner is set to face third-ranked Alexander Zverev.
As the Madrid Open wraps up, Kostyuk’s victory stands out not only for its athletic significance but also for the powerful emotions and context surrounding it.