'Takes Away Abyss Of Energy': Svitolina On Facing Russian And Belarusian Players

| by Evita Mueller

Elina Svitolina endured a pretty tough 2-3 years on Tour with injuries and then the War in Ukraine, but she's enjoying life right now.

The Ukranian had a tough time last year with the War in Ukraine but found joy in becoming a mother. It's been an enriching time for the Ukranian, who produced some of the best tennis she's ever played in recent months.

Deep runs at Roland Garros and Wimbledon earned her plenty of respect among peers and pundits alike, mostly because not many people expected it. Svitolina herself hinted at an early retirement because of motherhood, but it's not going to happen anytime soon with the way she played.

Actively playing means that she faced tricky situations, such as playing against Russian and Belarussian players on Tour. That was quite demanding, as she explained in a recent Vogue interview.

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It takes away an abyss of energy - and mental energy as well. The match lasted almost three hours, literally a few goals decided the outcome. I kept thinking: the victory will bring precious moments of triumph to the Ukrainians. I want to fulfill all my tasks, from sports to charity, to help our military, children, all Ukrainians.

She won some and lost some, but the most important thing for her was to give it her all during those matches. She was successful in that regard, and everybody back home was proud. She's not only helping Ukraine that way; she's lending her voice to the cause and championing it around the world.

Being involved with several charities also helped, as well as going back home to witness the destruction first-hand. One thing has been constant for Svitolina in her career: it's never been easy, but she's never given up and kept fighting. She's doing that right now as well.

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