Elina Svitolina Ends 2024 Season with Foot Surgery
Elina Svitolina, the former world No. 3 tennis star, has announced that she will undergo foot surgery, ending her 2024 season prematurely. The Ukrainian player has been battling a persistent foot injury since last season, which has significantly impacted her performance and daily life.
Svitolina’s decision to go under the knife comes after careful consideration and consultation with medical professionals. She hopes that the surgery will resolve the issue that has plagued her for over a year. The injury has not only affected her tennis but also caused back and hip problems.
“It’s become harder to manage and has been impacting me more and more, not just with regard to tennis and training but in my every day life too,” Svitolina wrote on social media.
The 28-year-old last played at the US Open, where she lost to Coco Gauff in the third round. Despite the early exit, Svitolina had a respectable season, reaching the quarterfinals at Wimbledon, finishing runner-up at the WTA 250 in Auckland, and making the fourth round at the Australian Open and Roland Garros.
Svitolina’s premature end to the season is a disappointment, especially considering her return from maternity leave in April 2023. However, she remains determined to return to the court stronger than ever.
“I am determined to do whatever it takes to get back on the court and compete at the highest level,” she wrote. “I want to thank all of you for your support and encouragement during this challenging time. Your love and positivity mean the world to me, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all at the courts in 2025.”
Svitolina’s injury and subsequent surgery highlight the challenges faced by athletes, particularly those who have recently returned from maternity leave. The physical demands of professional tennis can be unforgiving, and injuries can derail even the most talented players.
