Elina Svitolina says competing amid the continued warfare in Ukraine has been tough, telling the Sky Sports activities Tennis Podcast that information from her dwelling nation “makes me cry”.
Svitolina’s household has been affected by the warfare in Ukraine, together with her grandmother – who she stays in fixed contact with – nonetheless based mostly in her hometown of Odesa.
Regardless of the priority over the well-being of her family members again dwelling, the world No 18 managed to achieve her third profession Grand Slam semi-final at Wimbledon final yr. Svitolina had returned to tennis in April 2023 after the start of her daughter.
“Sometimes it’s really tough,” Svitolona advised the Sky Sports activities Tennis Podcast.
“I am completely satisfied I’ve my group round me who perceive this. I’ve pals who I communicate to who assist.
“I communicate to her (grandmother) each single day, maintain in touch and examine on her psychological well being.
“My hometown has been attacked for many days now so it’s been really tough for everyone there. I try to check on them but the news from there makes me cry.”
Svitolina: Ukraine is my ‘completely satisfied place’
Whereas her dwelling nation is at warfare, the 29-year-old makes use of tennis and her social media platforms to attempt to influence change for the younger individuals affected by the battle, additionally organising the Elina Svitolina Basis.
“When I got pregnant, the war just started so I had time to sit down and understand what I can do and how I can be helpful for my country,” she mentioned.
“I’m in a safe place, travelling around the world, I have so many opportunities and that’s why I try to create projects for the mental health of the kids – this has been the mission for me and as a top athlete in Ukraine it’s important to use that.”
Svitolina takes nice satisfaction in her nation, naming it her “happy place”.
“Every time I go back to Ukraine I get a lot of energy from the people,” she added.
“For me, when I leave after being in Ukraine, going to tournaments, I feel like I’m energised to give back to them. I want to show good results – they really motivate me a lot.
“I wish to make Ukrainians completely satisfied, they’re struggling proper now, so taking part in tournaments, profitable matches and bringing this little positivity to them, that is what drives me.”
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