Kostyuk, 20, beat 22-year-old Gracheva 6-3 7-5 in Austin, Texas.
She dedicated her victory to her country and “all the people who are fighting and dying” following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year.
“Being in the position that I am in right now, it is extremely special to win this title,” Kostyuk said.
She has been outspoken about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and previously refused to shake the hand of Belarusian Victoria Azarenka at the US Open.
Belarus has been a key ally of Russia in the war against Ukraine.
Source – BBC Sport
