Oleksandra Oliynykova continued to be one of the most compelling figures on tour. She arrived at her press conference at Roland Garros determined to tell her story.
First Grand Slam Win for Oliynykova
It was a big day for Oliynykova. She notched her first main draw win at a major by beating Russian qualifier Elena Pridankina 6-1, 6-2. After the win, Oliynykova took a Ukrainian flag and ran to her father, Denis, who she said is on leave from the Ukrainian Army.
He has been with her both last week in Strasbourg and this week in Paris. He was present during one of the biggest moments of his daughter’s career so far.
“It was very important for me that my father saw my first Grand Slam win in real life,” Oliynykova said. “When I finished the match, I took the Ukrainian flag and I came to my father and I said, ‘You saw it! You saw my first win in a Slam.’ Yeah, that’s very special; my first match, I’m going to win it only once. I’m very happy.”
Oliynykova Speaks Out on Ukraine
The topics shifted toward the Russian invasion and bombardment of Ukraine. This continues while the tennis tour goes on, which Oliynykova sees as oblivious dereliction of a moral duty.
The first question centered on the nationality of her opponent, and how she processes having to face a Russian.
“Of course I can talk about this element,” Oliynykova began. “For me, when I play, I’m professional and I’m doing my work. One day I can win; the other day I lose. And I mean, this is a part of my job. The thing is, it doesn’t affect me on the court.
“But we need to understand that this match and making a show from this, it’s not fair,” Oliynykova continued. She then pulled out her phone and showed an image of a tennis centre in Ukraine which had been hit by Russian bombs.
Later in the press conference, Oliynykova added that these bombed-out courts were ones she’d trained on.
Background to Oliynykova’s Season
- Oliynykova first spoke about training in Ukraine while bombs continue to fall on the country ahead of her Grand Slam debut in Melbourne this January.
- During the Italian Open earlier this month, Oliynykova described the tension that has developed between herself and WTA officials.
- WTA officials have urged her not to speak about players whom she believes are supporting Russia’s invasion.
Oliynykova continued to be one of the most compelling figures on tour on Tuesday evening at Roland Garros.