Elina Svitolina is set to make her return to professional tennis at the Charleston Open next week before playing the Oeiras ITF event later in April as a wildcard entrant.
Svitolina has not competed in 12 months after having her first child with ATP player Gael Monfils. However, the former world number three is preparing for a busy April, where she will compete at Charleston before heading to Portugal to play at the Oeiras ITF event.
For Svitolina, the return has been fast-tracked as she initially targeted a summer comeback. However, following a period of training, the 28-year-old said she is ready to compete again.
"At first, we thought that my comeback would be at a time of Wimbledon, but then, when we saw that I was in quite good training shape, we started wondering about Roland Garros and the tournaments prior to it."
Playing on grass was the original goal for Svitolina, with entry to Wimbledon the main target. But solid practice sessions meant she could make a clay return this spring.
"When I started playing with some girls, I felt that I was already in about 80% of my good form. Then we decided: if I play on clay, practice long enough, then maybe it would be good to start in Charleston because this is the first clay tournament."
Fitness and finding form again is just one consideration for Svitolina following the birth of her daughter, Skai, in October.
However, the Ukranian player feels now is the right time to resume her career. Svitolina also feels the travel won't be an issue and playing in Europe will suit her family.
"This way I will be able to play the entire clay season because my level in a training sense is very good. Our daughter Skaï won't be with me in Charleston, it's still a long road, but then when I go back to Europe and there's a European series, it'll be a lot easier for her to travel and we'll be closer to home."
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