Ukrainian Olympic champion fencer Olga Kharlan has been disqualified from the world championships after she refused to shake hands with Russian competitor Anna Smirnova following their match Thursday.
Kharlan defeated Smirnova 15–7 in the first round of the world championships Thursday. After the match, Kharlan put out her sabre instead of shaking hands, a practice that was allowed only during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smirnova, who was allowed to compete in a neutral capacity and not officially represent Russia, put out her hand for a handshake, and Kharlan declined. After a few seconds, Kharlan walked off the strip.
Kharlan was asked about her refusal to shake hands and her disqualification following the match.
