Elina Svitolina made a triumphant return to the WTA Tour at the Australian Open, beating Sorana Cirstea 6-4, 6-4 in her first match since her foot surgery. Showing resilience and precision, the Ukrainian star showed flashes of his old top-5 form, setting the stage for what could be a gripping comeback campaign.
A Perfect Return
Svitolina’s victory over Cirstea marked her first competitive match since the US Open. Despite the absence, the Ukrainian player, ranked 28th, played with confidence, hitting 22 winners and creating 12 break chances, three of which she converted. His aggressive but controlled approach was key in securing victory in just over 90 minutes.
This victory also extended Svitolina’s perfect record against Cirstea, bringing their direct record to 4-0.
How the Match Unfolded
- Premier Set :
Svitolina started strong, breaking Cirstea’s serve twice in a row to take a 4-1 lead. Although Cirstea managed to recover one of the breaks, Svitolina remained calm and held on to win the set 6-4. - Second Set:
The second set started as a more even affair, with both players holding serve through the first eight games. The match turned in a marathon ninth game, where Svitolina converted her seventh break point to take a commanding 5-4 lead. The Ukrainian then served for the match with authority, sealing the victory on her first match point.
The Return of Cirstea Adds an Interesting Dimension
Interestingly, Cirstea was also making a comeback after foot surgery. The Romanian, ranked No. 71, showed flashes of her potential but ultimately couldn’t match Svitolina’s consistency and power. It was only Cirstea’s second game since his return, having started his season in Adelaide last week.
Svitolina’s Perspective on Victory
Svitolina’s return is particularly significant given her prolonged absence and the physical challenges of recovering from surgery. The former world number 5 expressed satisfaction with her performance, citing her serve and ability to stay mentally strong in key moments as crucial factors.
“The first game back is always tough, but I’m happy with how I stayed focused and took my chances when they presented themselves,” Svitolina said after the match.
What’s next for Svitolina?
Svitolina’s next challenge will be against Caroline Dolehide, who also advanced to the second round. With her confidence boosted by a strong start, Svitolina will look to capitalize on her momentum as she aims for a deep run in Melbourne.
A promising return
Svitolina’s victory is a testament to her determination and ability to adapt after a long break. As she works to return to her best form, her aggressive play and calm under pressure signal a player poised to make a significant impact in 2025.
