Ukraine loses to Czechia in opening match of Billie Jean King Cup final
Ukraine's Anhelina Kalinina lost to Czech player Karolina Muchova in the first match of the Billie Jean King Cup final on Sept. 27.
World No. 7 Elina Svitolina has expressed that Ukraine will enter the Billie Jean King Cup final against Czechia on September 27 with "nothing to lose." She described Czechia as the clear favorite, but stressed that Ukraine must approach the match with the right mindset, already having made history by reaching the final. She said, "We’re already very happy to be in the final. But the job is not done yet."
Svitolina clarified that Czechia's paper favorite status doesn't diminish Ukraine's chances, noting, "That’s the mindset we’re going to take into the match." Her advice for the team is to focus on playing good tennis and adhering to tactical plans, which she believes could give them a fighting chance and possibly secure the trophy.
Winning the Billie Jean King Cup would be a dream come true for Svitolina and Ukraine, she added. "Of course, it would be a dream for us, for Ukraine. I really hope that one day — maybe tomorrow, maybe another day — we will lift this trophy for Ukrainians." She also highlighted the importance of sporting victories for Ukrainians during the ongoing war, stating that they can provide a respite from daily attacks and foster a sense of unity.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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