Elina Svitolina expressed her gratitude to everyone who helped raise $100,000 for Ukraine relief. On Sunday, the Charleston Open organizers joined forces with WTA Charities to host a Tennis Plays for Peace Pro-Am event. Svitolina, one of the biggest names in Ukrainian tennis, was joined by fellow WTA stars Sloane Stephens, Shelby Rogers and Anhelina Kalinina.
Also, 24 local Charleston tennis enthusiasts took part in the event. The event raised $100,000, which will be redistributed to the Elina Svitolina Foundation. “I’m really thankful to all the players and the tournament to make this happen.
It’s really important to continue helping Ukrainian people. This is really special that we can help in many different ways,” Svitolina said, per the Charleston tournament website.
Svitolina enjoyed returning to action
Svitolina, who gave birth in October, enjoyed being on the court again.
“I missed the crowd, walking on court and these moments, this buzz – I really missed that. It’s really exciting to be back on tour. For sure, it’s different now. But in so many ways it’s amazing.
I love being here in Charleston. I feel ready. It’s going to be a long way to be back where I have been, but I am excited for the challenge,” Svitolina said. Meanwhile, the Charleston organizers were happy that they were able to help Ukraine in at least some ways.
“Increasing awareness and raising funds for Ukraine is very important to us as a tournament and to our players. We are passionate about working with Elina, who has a deep and personal understanding of the needs in her home country right now,” Charleston tournament director Bob Moran said.
Since the start of the Russian invasion on Ukraine, Svitolina has been trying to help her country in many ways possible. Svitolina has been speaking out against Russia’s actions, while also raising funds for her country.
