Ukrainian Elina Svitolina’s Heartwarming Message After Beating Russia

KOMPAS.com – Tennis player from Ukraine, Elina Svitolina, gives a touching message after defeating Russian tennis player, Anastasia Potapova, at the Monterrey Open, Mexico, Tuesday (1/3/2022).

Elina Svitolina won dominantly 6-2, 6-1 over Anastasia Potapova in the first round match of the WTA 250 tournament.

The 27-year-old Odessa tennis player had refused to play against his opponent. He did this because he thought the world tennis community did not support Ukraine enough and imposed sanctions on Russia and Belarus.

However, he eventually agreed to compete after world tennis authorities banned Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing under their names and flags.

After the match, Svitolina, who played wearing the blue and gold Ukrainian colors, expressed the meaning of the victory.

“My mission is to unite the world tennis community and stand with Ukraine, to help Ukraine because what we have been through is very bad for all Ukrainians,” said the bronze medal winner at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, as quoted by the Guardian.

“That’s why I’m here. That’s why I’m fighting for my country and using the platform and resources I have to try to get everyone to support Ukraine.”

Words of thanks from @ElinaSvitolina ???????? ???? pic.twitter.com/YcnKu6ff95

– wta (@WTA) March 2, 2022

Svitolina has stated that all prize money she gets from the tournament will be donated to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

“For me, playing here, I don’t play for myself,” said Svitolina, who kept hitting his chest throughout the match.

“I am playing for my country, playing to help the Ukrainian army and people in need. All the victories I get will be very special.”