16-year-old Ukrainian artistic gymnast Taisiya Onofriychuk not only achieved a remarkable victory at the World Cup stage in Baku but also showcased her strong stance.

In the hoop final, she secured the gold medal, outpacing former Russian athlete Vera Tugolukova, who now represents Cyprus, and Belarusian Salos Anastasia, competing under a neutral flag.

After the award ceremony, athletes typically take a group photo on the podium. However, Onofriychuk declined to stand next to her competitors, sending a clear message that was supported by thousands of Ukrainians on social media. Even the mascots were taken aback by this turn of events.

This gesture from Taisiya is not an isolated incident but part of a growing trend among Ukrainian athletes.