It has been a breakthrough year for Elina Svitolina as she prepares for her first appearance at the WTA Finals in Singapore.
The 23-year-old heads into the season-ending tournament with more titles under her belt this season than anybody else. Out of her five trophies, three were won at Premier 5 events in Toronto, Rome and Dubai. Never before had a player won three Premier 5 titles within a season since the category was introduced in 2009.
In the grand slams, Svitolina achieved a win-loss record of 12-4 with a quarterfinal appearance at the French Open being her best run in 2017. She has scored ten wins over top-10 opponents, including Angelique Kerber on three occasions, Garbina Muguruza twice, Simona Halep and Caroline Wozniacki.
“I’ve changed lots of coaches. I took something from each partnership and everything just came together. I’m more mature and working hard during the off-season really paid off for me.” Svitolina told reporters about her current form.
There was no one significant moment that elevated Svitolina to the next level. Her process was trying to improve her consistency week-by-week. Reflecting upon 2016, there was still one match that stood out for her. The time she defeated Serena Williams at the Rio Olympic Games.
“It was something good, showing that I’m moving in the right direction but I need more consistency to play at that kind of level all the time.” She explained about that win.
“I’ve been working on it and this year it was much better for sure.”
It is Svitolina’s desire to learn that is driving her to succeed on the tour. She is coached by Gabriel Urpi, who joined her team in 2017. Urpi is a former Spanish player that has previously worked with Arantxa Sanchez Vicario and Conchita Martinez. Both of whom reached grand slam finals under his guidance.
Now ranked fourth in the world, Svitolina has the chance of make history in Singapore. Never before has a Ukrainian player reached the final of the tournament. There is a lot at stake for Svitolina in the $7 million event. Besides history, there is also a possibility that she could rise to No.1 depending on the performance of her rivals.
Yet, as she approached the end of a stellar season, Svitolina’s focus remains on one thing. Masking herself an even better player.
“I’m looking forward to this part of the season, to improve more and be consistent… there’s still lots of room for improvement,” she said.
“To be the best player you need to do everything, so it’s important to improve just the little things, which would make the difference.”
The WTA Finals will begin on Sunday with the draw taking place later today.
