Elina Svitolina reveals main goals in the rest of 2020 despite slow start

The top-ranked Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina had a roller coaster ride in 2019, reaching back-to-back Major semi-finals at Wimbledon and the US Open but failing to win the WTA title for the first time since 2012. Struggling with a knee injury during spring, Elina had to miss some important tournaments, regaining the composure after that and achieving those deep runs in London and New York to finish in the year-end top-6 for the third consecutive year. Svitolina spent the offseason in Dubai where she claimed titles in 2017 and 2018, forgetting to sign for this week's Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships but entering the draw after earning a wild card.

Svitolina will try to turn the tables at one of her favorite events, making a slow start so far in 2020 with only four wins from eight matches and failing to reach the semi-final at all three tournaments she competed at. The Ukrainian feels there's no reason to panic, working hard on her game and hoping to find the consistency and stay healthy for the rest of the year, starting from Dubai where he always loved to play. Elina also mentioned the Olympic Games and her desire to claim the title for Ukraine, together with Grand Slam events where she is yet to go all the way and write her name among the legends. 

"I try to take one day at a time; I don't rush things. I try to prepare well, feel good being out there. For me, it's nice to be back here in Dubai where I have great memories. That's what matters for me for now," Svitolina said. "I won this tournament twice, doing something right here in the past. I have to try to find a way to get into the same routine and playing well; it's more about confidence than pressure. For me, I think the main goal now would be trying to find back my game and rhythm; also to stay healthy throughout the year.

When I feel good, I can play on a high level; I will back on the top if I stay healthy and play consistent tennis. I try to focus on positive things; I didn't play bad so far despite poor results, I'm on the right way. I have to work hard on the court to be ready for the challenge; everyone is super fit now and every single match from the beginning of the tournament is important. You have to be at 100% and that's what I am trying to work on. I want to play well at the Olympics and try to get a gold for Ukraine. The Grand Slams, of course, are always the ultimate goal though for every tennis player."

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2ucUEe2