Tennis stars Anastasia Potapova and Alexander Shevchenko, who tied the knot in December 2023 on the age of twenty-two, have separated after lower than a 12 months of marriage. Rumors about their break up gained traction in September 2024 when Potapova deleted all photographs of Shevchenko from her Instagram and unfollowed him. Followers speculated a few divorce, and now the WTA participant has confirmed that their marriage is certainly over.
Anastasia Potapova & Alexander Shevchenko posing for photographer Jimmie48 forward of the 2024 Internazionali BNL D’Italia in Rome
Talking to journalist Sofya Tartakova from her coaching base in Dubai, Potapova opened up concerning the tough choice. “I made some shockingly big decisions at the end of the year,” she admitted. “Of course, I’m very disappointed it all went the way it did.”
The 23-year-old Potapova confirmed that she and Shevchenko separated after the 2024 US Open. Whereas Shevchenko has but to touch upon the tip of marriage, Potapova needed to navigate months of hypothesis and intrusive questions: “Every other person came to me and asked, ‘So what, you two broke up?’ On tour, outside the tour. Of course, it’s not really polite, but it’s life and people are curious. It’s like a TV show for them. I think I needed to put an end to it, to end things officially, so I wouldn’t get those questions anymore. I think that was the last step I needed to finally set myself free.”
All through the difficult interval, Potapova discovered consolation in her household, along with her mom Yuliya touring alongside her to offer help. “I have incredible parents, who understand me the way I am,” she stated. “They never judge me, never judge my choices: ‘Wedding? Ok, we’ll have a wedding. Divorce? Sad, painful, but how we help you?’ Mom had a great relationship with Sasha; I hope she still does.”
The world No. 33 Potapova mirrored on her difficult 2024 season, admitting that regardless of every part, she managed to carry herself collectively, step onto the courtroom, and compete—not performing badly in any respect. Whereas she acknowledged that the 12 months wasn’t as profitable because the earlier one, she believes that, given the circumstances, it has been probably the most useful season of her profession.
The couple, who started relationship in late 2022, had initially appeared to steadiness their skilled careers and private lives properly. Throughout the 2023 Roland Garros event, Potapova revealed in an interview with Tennis.com that that they had been collectively for half a 12 months, emphasizing Shevchenko’s unwavering help. “It’s really helpful to have someone who can support you.” she had stated on the time. “Not just on your team, but someone you’re close to, who knows tennis and wants what’s best for you.”
Regardless of early issues that they had been transferring too quick, they appeared to be doing nice and even reached profession milestones throughout their relationship. Potapova climbed to career-high No. 21 within the WTA rankings in June 2023, whereas Shevchenko achieved a career-high of No. 45 in February 2024.
It’s unlucky that this younger tennis couple has parted methods, confirming the doubts of those that believed 22 was too early for marriage in in the present day’s world. You possibly can watch Anastasia Potapova’s full interview on YouTube. (by way of Tennis.com)