DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS

February 20, 2026

Elina Svitolina

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium

Press Conference

E. SVITOLINA/C. Gauff

6-4, 6-7, 6-4

THE MODERATOR: We will start with questions.

Q. How are you feeling? Thoughts on reaching the final after such an incredible three-hour match?

ELINA SVITOLINA: Yeah, was extremely tough physically, mentally. Of course, was important for me to bounce back after that second set. Had some chances to close the match, but unfortunately didn't go my way.

Was trying to really put my head down and keep fighting, keep trying to find the opportunities. Very happy I could stay composed in a way and close the third set.

Q. What about recovery till the final?

ELINA SVITOLINA: Well, we'll do everything possible. Physios are here trying to help me to speed up the recovery. Of course, it's not going to be easy. It's a final. It's important to give your everything.

I will do my very best to recover and really be there for this big final. For me it's important just to keep fighting, trying to do everything what I can. We'll see how it goes.

Q. What do you think made the difference today?

ELINA SVITOLINA: Yeah, I mean, it's small margins, you play someone who is playing a good level. Of course, Coco is such a big player. I think the margins were really, really tiny. Few mistakes here, few mistakes there.

Also in the second set I had my chances. Unfortunately missed a few of them. But also she played very well. It was really high level for both of us throughout these three sets. High intensity. Yeah, it was really incredible match that we played.

Then it happens, sometimes you have a little down moment. It's all about taking your chances in matches like that.

Q. Tomorrow obviously you're playing Jess Pegula. What are your initial thoughts about playing her?

ELINA SVITOLINA: Well, we know each other's games. Played couple of times. For me for now, to be fair, just important to recover physically because it's going to be another physical match. Here with the conditions, you really have to rely on your physicality.

Yeah, another final. For me it's nice moment, another moment to take this challenge. Looking forward to that.

Q. Very tough match, short recovery time. Any inspirations from the two amazing finals you won here?

ELINA SVITOLINA: Well, tough to say now. For sure I had really special moments on this court, winning for the first time here, entering top 10. Coming the next year, winning it again. Of course, I have great memories. Have great support here. I'm very much enjoying the fight.

Of course it's going to be special moment. I try to not think too much about it right now. For me, it's just about recovering and trying to do my very best to be in a good shape tomorrow.