**Elina Svitolina’s Comeback Sparks Buzz After Australian Open Wins**
Key Takeaways:
- Elina Svitolina returns to top form at the 2026 Australian Open following a mental health break.
- She paused her 2025 season after burnout and emotional pressure from global and personal responsibilities.
- Now undefeated in 2026, she is eyeing a Top 10 return and another deep Grand Slam run.
Melbourne, Australia — Elina Svitolina is trending after her inspiring return to the tennis spotlight at the 2026 Australian Open, where she is undefeated through the first week. Following a self-imposed break at the end of 2025 due to burnout and emotional exhaustion, the Ukrainian star has made a statement comeback, cruising into the third round and reigniting hopes of a Top 10 return.
Breaking Through With a Recharged Mindset
Svitolina, now 31, started her 2026 campaign with a title win at the ASB Classic in Auckland and has followed it up with a commanding performance in Melbourne. Her decision to shut down her 2025 season after a painful loss at the Billie Jean King Cup has paid off, as she now looks refreshed and mentally refocused. As a mother, athlete, and prominent activist for Ukraine, Elina Svitolina had faced mounting pressures that ultimately forced her to step away last year.
“I couldn’t fight anymore,” she admitted, referring to the moment she decided to pause her season after losing a critical match while representing her war-torn homeland. Instead of pushing through, Svitolina opted for what she calls a “healing break.” Backed by her husband and fellow tennis pro Gaël Monfils, she took a month off completely from tennis, stepping away from competition, training, and public duties to recharge mind and body.
The Road Back from Burnout
The news of Svitolina’s return has resonated worldwide, especially given her openness about mental health and the emotional toll of being both an elite athlete and a symbol of hope for Ukraine. Since returning to the WTA Tour after giving birth to her daughter Skaï, Svitolina had shown strong form, reaching seven Grand Slam second weeks out of eleven appearances, including a noted semifinal run at Wimbledon 2023.
Still, the emotional weight of her national role amid the war in Ukraine, coupled with the rigors of professional tennis and motherhood, led to a physical and mental breaking point after a defeat in the Billie Jean King Cup against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini. Though she was still ranked No. 14 at season’s end and in contention for the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Svitolina chose health over ranking points.
“It was maybe a surprising decision,” she said, “but it’s not only about tennis. It’s about the mental health you have to take care of.”
A Strong Start to 2026 and A Shot at the Top 10
Svitolina appears rejuvenated in 2026. After her title win in Auckland—where she and Monfils became the first married couple to win the same tournament in the same calendar year—she’s now reached the third round in Melbourne without dropping a match.
Her on-court game also looks more aggressive than in her earlier career. Since her maternity comeback, she has shifted from primarily defensive play to a more attacking style while retaining the speed and endurance that once brought her to a career-high world No. 3. If she continues her current form, Svitolina is in strong contention for a return to the game’s top ranks—and possibly a Grand Slam title run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Elina Svitolina trending?
A: She is gaining attention for her strong comeback at the 2026 Australian Open following a powerful mental health-driven decision to end her 2025 season early.
Q: What happens next?
A: Svitolina will compete in the Australian Open third round this weekend, with a chance to move closer to a Top 10 WTA ranking and a deep Grand Slam run.
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