Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina takes a break following the ‘unbearable pain’ of the Russian invasion

Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from the Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers next month after aggravating a back injury in her determination to play following the invasion of Russia.

Svitolina, who openly supported Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and Miami Open in recent weeks.

She lost in the first round in Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the quarter-finals of the Monterrey Open.

After this competition, she pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian military.

Russia calls its actions a “special military operation”.

“It has been an extremely difficult few months for me, not only mentally but also physically,” Svitolina wrote on Twitter.

“For a long time I struggled with my back. The pain did not allow me to prepare myself as well as possible for tournaments.

“Meanwhile, watching with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine and how bravely and courageously our Ukrainian people are defending our country has given me a huge boost to keep going and fighting on the pitch.

Svitolina will miss the Billie Jean King Cup, formerly known as the Fed Cup

“Now my body can’t take it anymore and I need to rest. Therefore, I’m sad to report that I’m going to miss the Fed Cup and some of my favorite tournaments in Europe.

“But I’m sure I’ll see you soon!” Thank you all for your support during this difficult time.

Ukraine will face the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16.

The tie will be played on an indoor hard court in Asheville, North Carolina.

The winners will qualify for the 2022 final, scheduled for November.

The Ukrainian player broke the barrier of pain, stimulated by the fate of her native country