"I'm really thankful to all people" - says Svitolina after 'Tennis with the Stars' charity event

Elina Svitolina hosted "Tennis with the Stars" tennis event to provide relief for Ukrainian refugees due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

It has officially been two weeks since the war between Ukraine and Russia ignited and no end is in sight. In the heart of the California desert on Tuesday afternoon, Elina Svitolina walked into the Omni Rancho Las Palmas tennis facility with a sombre look on her face.

Svitolina, alongside her husband and ATP veteran Gael Monfils, took the court at the upscale venue for the "Tennis with the Stars" event that saw all profits go towards aiding Ukrainian refugees. The two were joined by the legendary Bryan brothers, Frances Tiafoe, Nick Monroe and Jessica Pegula, who all jumped into action in front of a lively crowd.

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Speaking about the event, Svitolina said:

"I've been helping kids in Ukraine for over two years now and seeing what is happening, the situation in Ukraine with the war, it's really tough to see for me. Seeing all the innocent people struggling, it's heartbreaking for me. I'm really happy we could organize this event to raise money and to help people who are in need."

She finished off with:

"I'm really thankful to all the people who stand for Ukraine and for people living in Ukraine going through hell. Really thankful for all the soldiers and volunteers who took the weapons in their hands and doing their best to defend our nation and Ukrainian land."