Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina has received a special commemorative plaque by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in recognition of her war-relief efforts throughout her country's invasion by Russia.
Over the course of the past 12 months that this war has been continuing, Svitolina has raised sizeable funds for doctors, paramedics, and medical supplies, as well as modern medical equipment. In recognition, the 28-year-old was made the ambassador of United24, which is a central platform for raising aid and funding support for the war effort in Ukraine.
The former WTA World No. 3 has made extensive use of her foundation to provide a steady source of aid for Ukrainians in need.
As well as serving as an inspiration to many, Svitolina has motivated fellow athletes and high-profile Ukrainians to join the worthy and vital cause in supporting her people and the resistance to Russia's invasion.
In recognition of her outstanding work, Svitolina was presented with the commemorative plaque by President Zelenskyy this week.
It has been a monumental year for the Ukrainian Olympic bronze medallist, who gave birth to her first child last year, falling pregnant just at the start of the war in late February 2022. Despite all she has faced, Svitolina remains determined to return to competitive tennis action one day, although her central focus is currently on providing war relief, and raising her daughter.
Svitolina has reiterated her call for Russians and Belarusians to be banned from the Olympics in 2024, something the Olympic committee are currently deciding on.
The Olympics are the biggest dream and ultimate privilege for athletes. They are the largest platform for inclusion and diversity in sports, capturing the attention of the world. With this in mind we must stick to banning Russian and Belarusian athletes, sending a strong message worldwide, that we are united in the sanctions imposed against Russia and Belarus.
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