Elina Svitolina reflects on Monterrey outing - "Was on a mission for my country"

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina didn't win the Monterrey title but her mission at the Mexican event was bigger than just winning it all.

Svitolina came to Monterrey absolutely heartbroken and devastated over what was happening in her home country. From the start, she dedicated all her wins to her people and her county while also pledging all the prize money towards helping people in Ukraine as well. Her run was cut short by Osorio Serrano in the quarterfinal.

Speaking on the event and reflecting on it, Svitolina said:

I was on a mission for my country. I’m in a very sad mood, but I’m happy I’m here playing tennis. I think it’s my mission to unite our tennis community to stand with Ukraine, to help Ukraine because what we’re going through is a horrible thing for all Ukrainians. That’s why I’m here. That’s why I’m playing for my country and doing my best to use my platform to try to invite people to support Ukraine”.

Asked about her decision to donate all of her prize money, she said:

“For me, playing the match here, I’m not playing only for myself, I’m playing for my country, I’m playing for the help of the Ukrainian army and people in need. Every victory that I’m going to get is going to be very special.