Ukraine’s top player Elina Svitolina has announced financial donations to defend her homeland after her emotional win over Russia’s Anastasia Potapova. “All the prize money that I earn here goes to the Ukrainian military,” said the 27-year-old after her two-set win (6: 2, 6: 1) against Potapova in the first round match at the WTA tournament in Monterrey / Mexico .
“I was focused from the start. I was on a mission for my country,” said Svitolina, who wore Ukraine’s national colors (yellow top, blue skirt) and repeatedly slapped her chest before the obligatory handshake with her opponent.
Elina Svitolina: “I’m in a very sad mood”
“It’s a very special match for me, a very special moment,” she said: “I’m in a very sad mood, but I’m also happy that I can play tennis here.”
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Russian women tennis players are not allowed to compete under the Russian flag
Potapova was not allowed to compete under the Russian flag following a recent decision by the WTA. That was the only reason why Svitolina started at all, before she had threatened a boycott.
Elina Svitolina had threatened a boycott
“I would like to announce that I will not play against Russian or Belarusian tennis players in Monterrey or in any other match until our organizations take the necessary measures,” Svitolina wrote on Twitter.
Elina Svitolina: “I don’t blame Russian athletes”
“I don’t blame the Russian athletes,” she continued. “I want to pay tribute to all the players, especially the Russians and Belarusians, who bravely spoke out against the war. Your support is essential.”
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“Every time I talk to my family and friends, it’s hard to find words for what’s happening in Ukraine,” Svitolina previously said in a Eurosport interview. “My parents, my grandparents, my uncle and my aunt live there. I try to talk to them regularly.” It is important to keep in touch to find out exactly what is happening and how she can help them. “The most painful thing is that I feel completely useless.” (sid/dpa/fe/fa)
