A 13-year-old Ukrainian who won bronze at an international karate competition has made headlines after refusing to pose for a photo with his Russian rival during the medal presentation.
A video circulating on social media shows Yevhenii Melnyk, who competed in the under-45 kg category at the Youth Karate League in Guadalajara, Spain, stepping down from the podium in protest, despite pressure from organizers.
The gold went to Igor Grigorev, a Russian who competed under “neutral” status.
Several Ukrainian athletes have refused to shake hands or pose for photos with their Russian counterparts in protest against Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
Three years into the war, at least 591 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been confirmed killed as a result of the invasion, with 22 reported to be in captivity and another 11 missing.
One person wrote on X: “A teenager has a better understanding of global policy than most politicians and athletes.”
Another wrote: “There’s nothing neutral about it, he was absolutely correct.”
Yet another asked: “Why is Russia not suspended anymore? Is the war already over?”
The gold went to Igor Grigorev, a Russian who competed under “neutral” status.
Several Ukrainian athletes have refused to shake hands or pose for photos with their Russian counterparts in protest against Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.
Three years into the war, at least 591 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been confirmed killed as a result of the invasion, with 22 reported to be in captivity and another 11 missing.
Melnyk’s stance generated a huge response on social media, with many supporting him. Some, however, described his conduct as poor sportsmanship.Ukrainian teen wins bronze in Spain—walks off podium to avoid photo with “neutral” Russian. pic.twitter.com/hnwyvGSDab
— UNITED24 Media (@United24media) April 8, 2025
One person wrote on X: “A teenager has a better understanding of global policy than most politicians and athletes.”
Another wrote: “There’s nothing neutral about it, he was absolutely correct.”
Yet another asked: “Why is Russia not suspended anymore? Is the war already over?”
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