Svitolina, Swiatek make semifinals at National Bank Open

Elina Svitolina knew this match meant slightly more.

And the Ukrainian tennis star was down a set to a Russian opponent.

The fans in the stands — many from her country's large, flag-waving diaspora in the Greater Toronto Area — were living with every point across the National Bank Open quarterfinal on an emotional Monday night.

Svitolina responded and forced her way into the semifinals.

The No. 9 seed and 2017 tournament winner recovered from a tough start to top Ekaterina Alexandrova 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and advance on centre court at Sobeys Stadium.

"I had to really try to find opportunities," Svitolina said. "I found my game."

She will now face Iga Swiatek on Wednesday for a shot at the final after the No. 7 seed topped No. 15 Diana Shnaider — also of Russia — 6-2, 6-1.

Canada's Leylah Fernandez eliminated in fourth round at National Bank Open

A six-time Grand Slam winner, including last year's Wimbledon crown, Swiatek made the NBO semis in 2023 when she lost to Jessica Pegula, who would go on to capture consecutive titles.

"I feel like I'm for sure better focused," Swiatek said of her game's current state. "I'm able to follow the plan a little bit easier because I feel the ball good on my racket."

The rest of the women's singles matches in the quarters go Tuesday. No. 2 Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan — the top remaining seed — takes on No. 11 Naomi Osaka of Japan, while No. 4 Coco Gauff of the United States meets No. 12 Belinda Bencic of Switzerland.

Svitolina was asked about the energy from the seats and on the court in Monday's late session, especially given Russia's continued war against Ukraine that's now halfway through its fifth year.

"I feel a little bit more pressure than playing any other player," she said. "Toronto