Ukraine's top tennis stars Elina Svitolina and Marta Kostyuk shared emotional reactions after Russia launched one of its biggest missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and nearby regions Thursday night. According to Ukrainian officials, the attack killed at least three people and injured around 40 others. More than 670 drones and 56 missiles were reportedly fired during the overnight assault, damaging several districts in Kyiv and nearby areas. Southern parts of Odesa and railway infrastructure were also hit.
As rescue teams searched through damaged buildings and civilians were pulled from rubble, both Ukrainian tennis players used social media to show support for their home country. Elina Svitolina posted an Instagram story with a heartbreak emoji and the words, "Heartbreaking stats." Meanwhile, Marta Kostyuk shared a painful video showing rescue workers helping civilians trapped under destroyed buildings after the attack.
The latest strike came just days after a temporary three-day ceasefire linked to efforts by US President Donald Trump. However, drone attacks from both Russia and Ukraine resumed shortly after the pause ended, making hopes for peace feel distant once again.
Svitolina and Kostyuk: Voices for Ukraine
Since the war began in February 2022, Elina Svitolina has remained one of the strongest voices in tennis speaking about Ukraine's suffering. Along with other Ukrainian players, she has continued her decision not to shake hands with Russian and Belarusian opponents after matches. Even now, more than three years later, she says the pain of the war still feels personal every single day.
Back in March, during a press conference, Svitolina spoke honestly about how she feels the world is slowly moving on from the war even though Ukrainians are still living through it.
"Yeah, I mean, for sure. I feel this way. I'm still very much in it, because, you know, I have my family there, my friends are there. I go back quite often there, as well. But I think because of the other wars, as well, around the world, I think it's, yeah, not the headlines anymore for a long time," she said.
Strong Performances on Court
While dealing with emotions connected to her home country, Svitolina has also continued producing strong performances on court. She is currently playing at the Italian Open and recently reached the semifinals after beating World No. 2 Elena Rybakina in a tough three-set match. Svitolina lost the opening set 2-6 but fought back strongly to win 6-4, 6-4. The victory set up a semifinal clash against former World No. 1 Iga Swiatek.
Even during an important tournament week, the situation back home remains close to her heart, just like it does for Marta Kostyuk and many other Ukrainian athletes competing around the world.
