James Wilson 
Elina Svitolina marked her return to competitive tennis with a successful start at the Australian Open, defeating Sorana Cirstea 6-4, 6-4. This match was significant for Svitolina, as it was her first WTA appearance since the US Open and her recovery from foot surgery. Demonstrating impressive form, the Ukrainian showcased her powerful serve and aggressive playing style, tallying 22 winners throughout the match. Svitolina’s next challenge will be against Caroline Dolehide as she aims to build on this momentum.
In a match that lasted just over an hour and a half, Svitolina created 12 break point opportunities, successfully converting three of them to secure her victory. Despite facing a fellow player also returning from foot surgery—Cirstea had undergone a procedure after Wimbledon—Svitolina maintained control and composure. The match was notable for its competitive spirit, especially as Cirstea was playing her second match of the season after her comeback began in Adelaide last week.
Svitolina’s victory extends her head-to-head record against Cirstea to a perfect 4-0. The former world No. 5 got off to a strong start, breaking her opponent twice to establish an early 4-1 lead. Although Cirstea managed to break back, Svitolina held her nerve and secured the first set. In the second set, both players battled closely, reaching a stalemate at four games each. However, Svitolina’s perseverance paid off in a lengthy ninth game, where she converted her seventh break point to take a 5-4 lead. Serving for the match, Svitolina closed it out successfully, sealing her comeback with her first match point.
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