Two years on from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Elina Svitolina represents her country on court and in the conflict.
Svitolina, who was given a wild card into the main draw, comes on to court for her Wimbledon semi-final in July, followed by Czech opponent and eventual champion Marketa VondrousovaAs the crowd cheered Elina Svitolina on to Centre Court for her Wimbledon semi-final, millions of people back in her native Ukraine tuned in to support.
Belarus has hosted Russian troops, allowing their allies to launch the invasion across another front, close to Kyiv. Svitolina, like all Ukrainian players, has vowed not to shake hands with either Russian or Belarusian opponents until peace is restored and Ukrainian territory is returned.It has been a controversial and, for some, confusing stance, but Svitolina stands by it.
When she's not catching up with friends and family at home, or playing in matches, Svitolina dedicates her time to her foundation. The Elina Svitolina foundation was set up in 2019 and supports young tennis players in her home country. "It changes your mindset a little bit. To not just focus on the war and seeing your parents worried and scared."Makar, 12, was one of the attendees. He said that he worked hard to climb the national junior rankings and secure a place at the camp.
But planning such an event comes with extra stress. The tournaments took place in locations with bomb shelters for the children to go to during air alerts. "It's a good opportunity for the kids to develop their talent but also get this opportunity to see the world as well."
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