Function always over Form

Whilst having my morning coffee I had the chance to interact with this iconic coffe cup.

Elegant in its form, as I picked the cup up, I found myself straining to lift such weight with support from my finger and thumb. 

I may actually be lifting this cup worngly but the physical affordance warrants some people (like me) to lift the cup as such. Why is the handle be so small? 

I don't care that it looks more elegant   Let me enjoy my coffee without having to cramp up my hands every time I take a sip.