In a stunning and emotional display at the Australian Open, Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina beat Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova 6-4, 6-1, securing her place in the quarter-finals. But for Svitolina, this match was more than just a tennis competition—it was a struggle of resilience, pride, and a symbolic stand against the ongoing war in her home country.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Svitolina has made it her mission to convey her fighting spirit on the court. Her record against Russian players is perfect at 7-0, and she doesn’t hesitate to talk about the extra motivation these matches give her.
“If I don’t win, I’ll almost die on court,” Svitolina said after her emphatic victory. “The associations I make with this country are very hard and painful in my heart. So, of course, I have extra motivation.”
Fighting for more than victories: Svitolina’s rallying cry for Ukraine
Svitolina’s determination is fueled by the devastating realities of her country. As the war drags on, she admits that waking up to news of friends who died on the front has become tragically routine.
“Waking up to the news that your friends died on the front, killed by Russian soldiers, is something incredibly difficult for my heart,” Svitolina shared with reporters in Melbourne. “I feel like sometimes people forget that there is still war, that we still need help.”
For the former world number 3, tennis has become a platform to demonstrate resilience and remind the world of Ukraine’s continuing struggle.
-“It is very important to show resilience, to show that I am here to fight no matter what,” Svitolina emphasized.
No handshakes, no compromises
In solidarity with her country, Svitolina and other Ukrainian players have refused to shake hands with opponents from Russia or Belarus since the start of the war. After her dominant victory over Kudermetova, the tradition continued, highlighting the personal and political statement she makes on the court.
The path ahead: A battle for the semi-finals
Svitolina’s journey at the Australian Open now brings her to a crucial clash with Madison Keys. Although his focus remains on the court, the weight of representing Ukraine adds an undeniable gravity to his quest for victory.
For Svitolina, every match is a tribute to her homeland, a rallying cry for unity, and a reminder of the resilience needed to keep fighting—not only in tennis, but in life.
