WIMBLEDON legend Chris Evert fought back tears as she saluted Elina Svitolina for “one of the most touching matches ever” on Centre Court.
The commentator praised the Ukrainian’s “inspired” run to the semi-finals during her “very sad time” following Russia’s invasion of her home country.
Chris Evert has won 18 Majors, including Wimbledon three times, but as a player or commentator has rarely been so moved as by Elina Svitolina’s win
Svitolina finds it hard to take in as she reaches the Wimbledon semi-finals by beating World No1 Iga Swiatek three months after returning to the Tour
Svitolina toppled world No1 Iga Swiatek on Tuesday, just three months after returning to the circuit after having a baby last October.
And 18-time Major winner Evert, 68, was in an awed yet solemn mood as she assessed the 28-year-old’s shock win.
Speaking on ESPN, the American said: “I think this was one of the most touching matches I’ve ever seen on Centre Court, just with everything Elina has gone through.
“She’s very inspired and she had a baby and her husband was so supportive of her.
“But she’s been going through a very sad time with what’s happening back in Ukraine with her family.
“And to see her being so inspired by this and playing so well it’s just very touching.”
Wimbledon wildcard Svitolina – now ranked 76th in the world after reaching No3 at one stage – beat Poland’s Swiatek 7-5 6-7 6-2.
She faces 24-year-old Czech star Marketa Vondrousova on Thursday for a place in the final two days later.
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And three-time Wimbledon winner Evert believes Svitoaina has returned to the Tour as a better, more attacking player.
She said: “We talk about the emotional side but Elina has the game now.
“She’s come back as a different player now than she was before.
She was a counter-puncher, now she’s an aggressive baseline player with a big serve. The way she covers the court, she’s a top player now.”
And Evert added ominously: “I like how calm she is because she’s not finished – she still has two matches to go.”
