MELBOURNE, Australia — Elina Svitolina showcased remarkable resilience Monday, rallying from a 4-1 deficit to defeat Veronika Kudermetova 6-4, 6-1 and secure her place in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open for the third time in her career. The 30-year-old Ukrainian's victory marks her 12th appearance in the last eight of a Grand Slam, and it is notably her first return to this stage in Australia since 2019.

“Feels like a lifetime ago,” Svitolina remarked, reflecting on her journey since her last Australian Open quarterfinal. Since then, she has married French tennis player Gael Monfils in 2021 and welcomed their daughter, Skai, in 2022. She expressed satisfaction with her performance, stating, “Many things happened and I’m really pleased with the performance throughout the tournament. Really enjoying this win today.”

Svitolina battled early setbacks, dropping two service games, but remained determined. “It’s the only thing I can do when things are not going your way, put your head down and get back to work,” she said after eventually taking control of the match.

Throughout the match, Svitolina donned a striking red outfit, while the crowd proudly waved the yellow and blue flag of Ukraine. Following an early medical timeout from Kudermetova, who sought treatment for abdominal discomfort, the momentum shifted as Svitolina took charge of the game, managing to take 11 of the next 12 games.

As Svitolina celebrated her victory, there was a noticeable lack of a handshake with her opponent, however, the absence of hostility was apparent. This victory set up a quarterfinal clash against either 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina or No. 19 Madison Keys.

Svitolina's husband, Monfils, who had previously achieved an upset over fourth-seeded Taylor Fritz, was scheduled to play later in the day. Svitolina expressed her hopes to support him from the sidelines, stating, “Playing the way that he plays right now, it’s special.”

As further matches determine the remaining quarterfinalists, Svitolina’s impressive comeback reflects her determination and growth in such a competitive environment. For more updates, visit the AP Tennis page.