“Elina commented on the victory over Linda Klimovicheva in the 1/32 finals of the Aus Open”, — write: sport.ua
– Elina, congratulations. What a victory. It’s never easy playing against an opponent you don’t know. The first set was very intense, and in the second the contrast was obvious. How did you feel on the court?
– Yes, the match was difficult. Linda played really, really well. She hit the ball very powerfully and of course it’s always difficult to play against someone you don’t know, especially if it’s a new player on the Tour. It was necessary to find the right way. I am very happy that I was able to close the match in two sets.
– This year you look almost invincible: the trophy in Oakland, now the third round is here. What made you take your game to the next level and where is that level of confidence now?
– To be honest, I try to go match by match. There is no rush. It all boils down to finding ways to win. Sometimes the matches aren’t perfect, sometimes you just have to put your head up and fight. So far it works very well. I’m very happy with how the off-season went – after September I had time to rest well and get ready to fight again. I’m happy with how I started the season and I’m just enjoying the game.
– You look very ready. Your husband lost and played his last Australian Open yesterday. What does this mean to you emotionally?
– Of course, I was very upset. I was very sad yesterday.
– Did you give him a “hard analysis” after the defeat?
– No, no. He has played here for so many years and it is a great pleasure for us to see him here for the last time. He retires in October and it will be a very special year for him. I am very happy to be near him and share these moments.
– What is his role in your team now? Is he just a man or does he give advice? I spoke with him yesterday, and he said: “I’m here only for Elina. I will support her, she can get whatever she wants.”
– He is just a man, I would say (laughs). Of course, it is difficult not to talk about tennis at all when we are both at this level and playing in the same tournament – tennis is always a part of our lives. But the years go by, and I don’t know how everything will be later. I’m sure we will enjoy it as a family. This is the most important thing for us now.
– Believe me, you will still talk about tennis. I’m married to a former tennis player – it always happens like that. What do you have planned for the rest of the day? It’s only 12:30 p.m., early in the day. Your daughter is not with you. What will you and Gael do?
– Maybe we’ll go shopping. Now that he’s out of the tournament, he has more time to take me shopping, for example.
– Let him take a credit card. Elina, congratulations, you are in the third circle.
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