Ukrainian fencer Olga Kharlan has been disqualified from the World Fencing Championships after refusing to shake hands with Russian fencer Anna Smirnova. Kharlan, the first Ukrainian fencer to face a Russian or Belarusian opponent since the invasion of her homeland, won their bout 15-7 in Milan.

However, instead of shaking hands, Kharlan offered her sabre to tap blades as a sign of respect, which led to a 45-minute sit-down protest from Smirnova. The International Fencing Federation (FIE) later disqualified Kharlan from the women's sabre individual event.

Smirnova competed under a neutral flag, as Russian and Belarusian athletes are allowed to do in some sports. Kharlan's disqualification prompted an appeal from the Ukrainian team and the support of fellow Ukrainian athletes. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia and the significance of gestures and symbols in international sporting competitions.