Speaking to the Sky Sports Tennis Podcast, Elina Svitolina said that competing in her native Ukraine has been challenging and that hearing about the conflict there “makes me cry.” Svitolina’s grandmother, with whom she stays in close contact, is still based in her birthplace of Odesa, and her family has been impacted by the conflict in Ukraine. The world No. 18 made it to her third career Grand Slam semifinal at Wimbledon last year, despite worries about the safety of her loved ones back home.
In April 2023, Svitolina resumed her tennis career following the birth of her baby. Svitolona said on the Sky Sports Tennis Podcast, “There are times when it’s incredibly difficult. “Having my team around me who recognize this makes me pleased. I talk to and get assistance from my buddies. “I stay in touch with my grandma, speak with her every day, and inquire about her mental well-being. Svitolina: My ‘happy spot’ is Ukraine. The 29-year-old founded the Elina Svitolina Foundation and utilizes tennis and her social media platforms to try and make a difference for the young people impacted by the conflict, even if her native nation is at war. “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 stated. “I try to make initiatives for the kids’ mental health since I’m in a safe location, I travel the world, and I have a lot of options. As one of the best athletes in Ukraine, it’s critical that I use this mission.” “Everyone in my hometown has been going through a lot because it has been under attack for a number of days. I attempt to inquire about them, but the information I receive makes me cry.” Being a proud citizen of her country, Svitolina refers to it as her “happy place.” “Every time I go back to Ukraine, I get a lot of energy from the people,” she stated. “I feel inspired to give back to them when I go from the games I attended in Ukraine. I am motivated greatly by the results I wish to demonstrate. “I want to make Ukrainians happy; they are struggling right now, so playing tournaments, winning matches, and bringing this little positivity to them is what drives me.
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