Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina is amazed by her unexpected run in the Wimbledon 2023 tournament, considering the challenges she has faced. Just nine months after giving birth and amidst the mental toll of the war in her homeland, the 28-year-old finds herself in the semi-finals. Svitolina will face Czech player Marketa Vondrousova on Thursday in a bid to secure a spot in the final.
Svitolina, who gave birth in October, returned to the WTA Tour three months ago with the intention of bringing joy to the people of Ukraine. Aware of the support she receives from her home country, she expressed gratitude for their encouragement. The Ukrainian player’s match against Vondrousova will kick off the action on Centre Court at 13:30 BST, followed by Ons Jabeur, last year’s runner-up, facing Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka.
In her remarkable journey, Svitolina has eliminated four major champions, including Iga Swiatek, the current world number one, in the quarter-finals. Although she has yet to secure a Grand Slam title, she remains focused on taking it one match at a time. When asked about winning the tournament, Svitolina playfully responded, “You crazy?! I don’t think so much about it… I take one match at a time. I know that there are a few matches left to get that trophy.”
Svitolina’s husband, Gael Monfils, a former French world number six, has decided to support her from home instead of being courtside for her third major semi-final. Svitolina explained that she is not superstitious but wishes to avoid jinxing anything. She expressed contentment with her husband watching the matches alongside their daughter Skai and her parents.
Svitolina’s opponent, Marketa Vondrousova, ranked 42nd in the world, caused an upset by defeating the fourth seed, Jessica Pegula, in the previous round. Vondrousova has also won their last two encounters. Despite reaching the 2019 French Open final, Vondrousova had not reached a Grand Slam quarter-final until this week.
In the second semi-final, Ons Jabeur of Tunisia, who eliminated defending champion Elena Rybakina, will face Belarusian second seed Aryna Sabalenka. Jabeur seeks revenge against Sabalenka, who defeated her in the 2021 Wimbledon quarter-finals. Jabeur expects a tough match with both players displaying their emotions on the court.
Their previous meeting occurred during practice sessions before Wimbledon, where Sabalenka witnessed Jabeur’s exceptional tennis skills. Both players recognize the disparity between practice and match performance, but Jabeur’s ability to maintain a high level in matches has impressed Sabalenka.
Sabalenka reflects on how the Wimbledon ban helped her improve her game, highlighting her growth and determination throughout the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Wimbledon journey
How has Elina Svitolina performed in Wimbledon 2023?
Elina Svitolina has had an impressive performance in Wimbledon 2023, reaching the semi-finals. Despite facing personal challenges such as giving birth nine months ago and dealing with the mental impact of the war in her homeland, she has showcased remarkable resilience and skill on the court.
Who will Elina Svitolina face in the semi-finals?
Elina Svitolina will face Czech player Marketa Vondrousova in the semi-finals of Wimbledon 2023.
Has Elina Svitolina won a Grand Slam before?
No, Elina Svitolina has not won a Grand Slam title yet. However, she has come close to achieving this feat and remains determined to take it one match at a time in her pursuit of a Grand Slam trophy.
Why is Elina Svitolina’s journey in Wimbledon 2023 significant?
Elina Svitolina’s journey in Wimbledon 2023 is significant due to the personal challenges she has overcome, including giving birth and the mental impact of the war in her homeland. Her success in the tournament showcases her exceptional talent and determination as she strives to bring joy to the people of Ukraine.
Who are the other semi-finalists in Wimbledon 2023?
The other semi-finalists in Wimbledon 2023 are Ons Jabeur and Aryna Sabalenka. Ons Jabeur defeated defending champion Elena Rybakina, while Aryna Sabalenka is the Australian Open champion.
More about Wimbledon journey
- Wimbledon Official Website
- BBC Sport: Wimbledon 2023 Coverage
- Elina Svitolina’s Player Profile on WTA
- Marketa Vondrousova’s Player Profile on WTA
- Ons Jabeur’s Player Profile on WTA
- Aryna Sabalenka’s Player Profile on WTA
