Elina Svitolina thrilled to be back on court after 13 months despite defeat - ‘I had goosebumps!’

Elina Svitolina said she had “goosebumps” after her return to court following 13 months on the sidelines. The Ukrainian star missed just over a year after becoming a mother as well as taking time away from the sport after Russia invaded her homeland. She made her return in Charleston after being given a wild card.

Ad Although she was defeated 6-7(3) 6-2 6-4 in a thriller against Yulia Putintseva, Svitolina said afterwards on the Tennis Channel that she was just happy to be back. Roland-GarrosFrench Open 2022: Who's playing? Who could miss out? Will Nadal be fit?16/05/2022 AT 11:48 «I had goosebumps,» Svitolina said. «It was a really, really sweet atmosphere out there.

It was so nice to see many people, and they were really cheering me on to push through some tough moments. “It was not easy physically for me today, but in the end, I'm really happy with the way I played today. Now, I can see more clearly what I need to improve to be better.

»I think I'm hitting the ball well. I just have to work more on my fitness. I think a few bits here and there are going to help me to keep the focus more consistently, to be there in the moment.

I think a few things here and there are going to make a difference for me." Svitolina’s husband, Gael Monfils, was watching from Europe although new baby Skai was sound asleep. 'Not ready' — Nadal pulls out of Monte Carlo Masters and delays return 'Completed our mission' — Rune and Mouratoglou part ways after six months ‘It’s really been healthy and amazing!’ – Muguruza to skip clay and grass-court seasons She also spoke about the charity pro-am she played in on Sunday, raising funds for her native Ukraine. «I'm really thankful for this opportunity, that the tournament made all this effort, the