Ukrainian tennis champion, Elina Svitolina, has shared her experience of an outpouring of support from American fans in the aftermath of a contentious meeting between American President, Donald Trump, and Ukrainian leader, Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders had a vitriolic exchange at the White House in the previous month, with Trump warning Zelensky he was “gambling with World War III”. This preceded the American government’s decision to suspend its support for Ukraine, which is currently battling a prolonged Russian invasion.
The volatile meeting also saw a verbal clash between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelensky. Despite the friction, the US has since resumed intelligence sharing and provided security assistance to Ukraine. Trump has also consented to a month-long ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, a proposal that will soon be put forward to Russia.
Svitolina, who recently ousted American Jessica Pegula – billionaire Terry’s daughter – from the Indian Wells tournament, has witnessed an overwhelming wave of support following the contentious meeting. She expressed, “Post the meeting in the Oval Office, I have received numerous messages of support from Americans. I have also been greeted with warmth and support for the Ukrainian people upon my arrival at the tournament”.
She further added, “The support has been immense, considering I played against three American contestants consecutively. In the midst of the prevailing stress in Ukraine, this has been truly special”.
Following the meeting, the US has confirmed that it will recommence its military aid to Ukraine, given the latter’s willingness to back Washington’s ceasefire proposal with Russia.
Meanwhile, Svitolina has had an impressive run at the Indian Wells Open. She defeated Ashlyn Krueger in the initial match and Danielle Collins in the round of 32. Despite losing the first set with Pegula, Svitolina managed a commendable comeback with 6-1, 6-2 sets, eliminating the billionaire heiress from the tournament.
Svitolina’s next challenge is Russian contender, Mirra Andreeva, in the quarterfinals. Andreeva, at a post-match press conference, acknowledged the difficulty of competing against a player vocal about the ongoing conflict between their countries. Andreeva stated, “It’s not easy, but I have played several matches against Ukrainian players. I try not to think about it and focus on my game”.
Svitolina, who has previously declined to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian players, is expected to maintain her stance in the upcoming match against Andreeva.
