The Cinderella run for Elina Svitolina at the 2024 Australian Open ended in the most heartbreaking way, as she was forced to retire from her fourth-round match.
The Ukrainian has been one of the most consistent tennis players in the past year. She had a good run at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, with a pretty solid outing at the US Open as well.
It was amazing to see, so when she made the ASB Classic final recently, nobody was really surprised. She did lose it but showed a good level ahead of the Australian Open.
In Melbourne, Svitolina produced a few good performances and found herself in the fourth round. Her opponent, Linda Noskova, was very beatable, much more than the world no. 1, Iga Swiate, who was the expected opponent, so ending with retirement was just not the way Svitolina wanted to finish this great run.
She spoke to the media after her match, explaining that she felt shooting pain in her back, and it completely 'locked up,' leaving her unable to do anything. She just couldn't continue playing tennis, which was very unfortunate.
"I got a spasm, or I don't know exactly what it is, but like shooting pain in the first game, the last two points. I couldn't do anything. Completely locked my back. Just very sad, of course."
Overall, though, it was a really good experience for Svitolina, who will look to continue her good play in the coming weeks. It's a big year for the Ukrainian who will have to defend her Olympic bronze medal in Paris as well.
"I felt little bit, but it's quite normal. Been playing some tennis in this tournament already. You know, fourth round, you have a little bit stiffness somewhere."
Considering that she ruled out a long career after becoming a mother, every event is crucial for her. We'll see what happens next, and if she adjusts her schedule after the injury.
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