In the face of Russia’s invasion of her homeland, Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina has discovered a newfound mental resilience that has translated into success on the tennis court. Returning to the sport after the birth of her daughter, Svitolina has advanced to the semifinals of Wimbledon, marking her third grand slam semifinal appearance.
Tag: Elina Svitolina
Elina Svitolina, Ukrainian Tennis Player Refuses to Play Against Russian Opponent
Svitolina, lined-up to play against Russian opponent Anastasia Potapova on Tuesday, refuses to play if sport authorities don’t take action against Russia for attacking her homeland. “I believe the current situation requires a clear position from our organizations: ATP, WTA and ITF,” Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina released on Instagram, speaking out against the injustice facing the Ukrainian people with Russia’s recent attacks. She continues, “As such, we—Ukrainian players—requested to ATP, WTA and ITF to follow the recommendations of the IOC to accept Russian or Belarussian nationals only as neutral athletes, without displaying any national symbols, colours, flags or anthems.”
