Elina Svitolina is looking to inspire Ukrainians in what she describes as hard times for the country politically.
The WTA Finals champion spoke to CNN in London about how she is looking to impact Ukrainians despite the political tough times.
“Politics is always going to be there and, constantly, every day, you hear bad news. That’s very tough, especially for kids and for the future,” Svitolina explains.
“It’s been tough for Ukraine to focus on something different from politics, but I always say if everyone does their own job 100% everyone will be fine.”
The 24 year-old has been living in London for three years now but spent a week in Ukraine and described her week as ‘crazy’ after winning the WTA Finals in Singapore.
“I didn’t really think that many people were watching and supporting and just following tennis, My week was crazy,” Svitolina said.
“It definitely made me realize I have the input of young kinds and, for me, it’s very important to promote sport in Ukraine because in Ukraine we have lots of different stuff going on and sport is not on the front pages. That’s why I try to do my best, and what’s in my power, to promote sport and to introduce it for small kids.”
Despite Svitolina’s already growing legacy and impact, she is yet to win a grand slam or even make the semi-finals which she says is a lifetime goal of hers.
“Grand slams are lifetime goals so they’re always going to be there,” she said ahead of the 2019 season.
“I try not to put any pressure on myself by saying I want to win this particular grand slam.”
The Ukrainian will begin her 2019 season in Brisbane, where she looks to defend her title before heading to the Australian Open on the 14th of January.
