“My heart stays at home” Dayana Yastremska gives an emotional speech to fellow Ukrainians after her BJK Cup Qualifier win against the USA
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Dayana Yastremska
World No. 93 Dayana Yastremska was part of the Ukrainian team in the USA for the 2022 BJK Cup Qualifiers clash played in Carolina. With the winner set to move into the Finals directly, it was the Americans who won the tie 3-2 in a nail-biting finish that was decided by the last match played by the Doubles team.
The Americans had taken a 2-0 lead early on and needed just one win to book their place in the Finals that will be played later in the season. Yastremska and her compatriot Katarina Zavatska however had other plans with both the players claiming wins to force a decider in the doubles. Dayana defeated Jessica Pegula while Zavatska defeated Shelby Rogers.
In the doubles, Yastremska and Lyudmyla Kichenok were shot down in straight-sets by Pegula and Asia Muhammad to push Ukraine in the Play-Offs while the Americans march into the Finals. While the match was played in the USA, there was great support for the Ukrainians as well, especially in support of the nation as it continues its fight against the Russians that has been raging since 24th February 2022.
“I’ve always been proud of my country and always been proud of being a Ukrainian and I always like to represent my country but now in this moment, it’s tough to describe it. My heart stays at home, I really want to go back there but my mind is here and I’ve to play, I have a responsibility to my sister and it’s just nice to be in a safe place here and to play in front of the amazing crowd with that great support. It’s nice to see the Ukrainian flags everywhere,” said Dayana after her match thanking the crowd for their support.
Dayana Yastremska continues to make donations from her prize money
While Dayana has not won a title this season, the Ukrainian has promised to donate her fees towards rebuilding her country and reach out to all those affected by the war that will complete 2 months next week. Along with Elina Svitolina, Dayana has made the decision to donate the money and help her compatriots who are stuck in the war zone.
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Sarthak Shitole
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