Svitolina Channels Her Best Tennis Despite Private Distractions

 It is turning into another headline creating Wimbledon tournament this year with a couple of controversies, but undoubtedly, dominated by some absolutely classic encounters and matches and Ukrainian, Elina Svitolina, is certainly making the most of her appearances this year as she has, largely unexpectedly, put herself through to the semi finals of the competition.

Having had a baby back in October, the 28 year old only returned to the tour three months ago, yet recently beat top seed Iga Swiatek in an enthralling 7-5 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 encounter in the quarter finals having looked incredibly sharp during the tournament so far and anyone from Ukraine who was lucky enough to follow via P1 Travel will be delighted with her efforts so far.

Prior to her first serve or return this month, she had made it absolutely clear that given the continuation of the illegal Russian war on her homeland, that given Russian and Belarusians were allowed to compete this year, that there would be no formal handshake at the end of games and that did cause a bit of controversy in her last match as unaware spectators misread the situation, but there was no such confusion as she defeated Swiatek 7-5 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 in the last eight.

Speaking after the match had finished to members of the press, she clearly understands her position as a bit of a beacon in the unfortunate current climate, and in embracing that role, it is clearly motivating and driving her on, as even though she is understandably focusing on each game as it comes, and her own tactical approach to each opponent she meets, there is clearly an undercurrent of wanting to 'bring a little happiness' to her compatriots if she can - and for as long as she can. For those who buy tickets for Australian Open looking for a rematch, they can expect a very kind, but competitive encounter, I imagine.

It also seems the war has changed her mindset when it comes to tennis and the in game pressures every player faces.

"Mentally, I don't take difficult situations as a disaster. There are worse things in life. I think war made me stronger and also made me mentally stronger.

" Svitolina certainly benefitted from the vocal and supportive Centre Court crowd, as tennis fans are more than appreciating that she is producing some of her best tennis ever on the back of turmoil about family and friends at home, not least the recent birth of a new child, and she is simply happy to play her part.

"There were many videos on the internet where the kids are watching on their phones. This really makes my heart melt seeing this. I have this motivation, like huge motivation, to come back to the top. But I think having a child, and war, made me a different person. I look at the things a bit differently. I'm just more calm."

Controversy on the tour is not new, neither are heartfelt moments and Polish born Swiatek deserves her own praise here - with a yellow and blue ribbon on her cap to show her own support, she said post match.

"I told her on the net that I hope she wins this tournament."