Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska who escaped Russian bombings simply over every week in the past, fell wanting a outstanding title victory on the Lyon Open after being overwhelmed by Zhang Shuai within the remaining.
The 21-year-old, who arrived in Lyon final Saturday and spoke of being “woken up by bombs” when Russia invaded Ukraine three days earlier, was overwhelmed 3-6 6-3 6-4 within the decider.
Yastremska stated she would use her prize cash of about £12,000 to assist Ukraine.
“It has been a tricky week,” she stated.
Yastremska, draped in her nation’s flag, tearfully addressed the Lyon crowd and despatched a message to her compatriots who stay in Ukraine.
“If Ukrainian individuals are watching me, I wish to say ‘you guys are so robust, you’ve an incredible spirit, and I attempted to battle for Ukraine’,” she stated.
“The prize cash I earn right here I’ll give to the Ukrainian Basis to help Ukraine,”
“Due to the general public for the help. I have been combating all week, not just for myself but additionally for my nation.
“All people was supporting me rather a lot. I felt a lot energy from the individuals right here.”
Zhang twice fought again from a break down within the third set to clinch her third WTA title.
