Tennis stars Anastasia Potapova and Alexander Shevchenko, who tied the knot in December 2023 at the age of 22, have separated after less than a year of marriage. Rumors about their split gained traction in September 2024 when Potapova deleted all photos of Shevchenko from her Instagram and unfollowed him. Fans speculated about a divorce, and now the WTA player has confirmed that their marriage is indeed over.
Speaking to journalist Sofya Tartakova from her training base in Dubai, Potapova opened up about the difficult decision. “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. While Shevchenko has yet to comment on the end of marriage, Potapova had to navigate months of speculation 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.”
Throughout the challenging period, Potapova found comfort in her family, with her mother Yuliya traveling alongside her to provide support. “I have incredible parents, who understand me the way I am,” she said. “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 reflected on her challenging 2024 season, admitting that despite everything, she managed to hold herself together, step onto the court, and compete—not performing badly at all. While she acknowledged that the year wasn’t as successful as the previous one, she believes that, given the circumstances, it has been the most valuable season of her career.
The couple, who began dating in late 2022, had initially appeared to balance their professional careers and personal lives well. During the 2023 Roland Garros tournament, Potapova revealed in an interview with Tennis.com that they had been together for half a year, emphasizing Shevchenko’s unwavering support. “It’s really helpful to have someone who can support you.” she had said at the time. “Not just on your team, but someone you’re close to, who knows tennis and wants what’s best for you.”
Despite early concerns that they were moving too fast, they seemed to be doing great and even reached career milestones during their relationship. Potapova climbed to career-high No. 21 in the WTA rankings in June 2023, while Shevchenko achieved a career-high of No. 45 in February 2024.
It’s unfortunate that this young tennis couple has parted ways, confirming the doubts of those who believed 22 was too early for marriage in today’s world. You can watch Anastasia Potapova’s full interview on YouTube. (via Tennis.com)
