Ukrainian Erina Svitrina says she received support from Americans following the extraordinary clash between President Donald Trump with Ukrainian counterpart Voldymir Zelensky at the White House last month.
Svitorina thanked her “unwavering support” and “compassion” on Sunday’s social media post after beating Daniel Collins in the third round of the Indian Wells.
After beating another American in a 5-7, 6-1, 6-2 victory over Jessica Pegra on Tuesday, Svitorina has received solid support in the California Desert tournament.
“Since meetings in the oval office, I have received many messages of support from the American people and many people when I arrived at the tournament, giving the Ukrainians love and support for those who returned home,” she said. “Also, there’s a massive support that takes into account that I’ve played three American girls in a row. It’s amazing to get it, considering all the stress that all Ukrainians are back home now.”
Svitolina will then face Russian teenager Mira Andreva in the quarterfinals of the Indian Wells.
Ukrainian players have boycotted the post-match tradition of shaking hands online when they take on enemies from Russia and Belarus, the setting of the invasion.
The US agreed on Tuesday to resume military aid and sharing information with Ukraine after saying it was ready to support Washington’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia.