Svitolina Hits Back at Online Hate After Shock Osaka Loss at Canadian Open
Ukrainian tennis star Elina Svitolina has publicly condemned the torrent of online abuse she received following her straight-sets defeat to Naomi Osaka at the Canadian Open in Toronto. The loss, a surprise for many, triggered a wave of hateful messages directed at Svitolina on social media platforms.
The 30-year-old Svitolina, a former world number three, didn't hold back in her criticism, directly attributing the vitriol to gambling-related frustration. “It’s just shocking, honestly,” Svitolina told reporters. “I received so many messages after the match, it’s just unbelievable. It’s mostly gamblers who are angry because I lost.”
The incident highlights a growing problem of online abuse targeting athletes, particularly in sports with significant betting interest. While Osaka’s return to form has been widely celebrated, Svitolina’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the darker side of the sport’s popularity and the impact it can have on players’ mental wellbeing.
Svitolina’s comments have sparked a wider conversation about the responsibility of social media platforms and the need for greater protection for athletes facing online harassment. Many fans and fellow players have voiced their support for Svitolina, condemning the behavior of those sending abusive messages.
“It’s really important to speak out about these things,” said Australian tennis star Daria Gavrilova. “Elina is a strong competitor and a great person. No one deserves to be subjected to that kind of abuse.”
The Canadian Open, a prestigious WTA 1000 tournament, has been marked by exciting matches and impressive performances. However, Svitolina's experience casts a shadow on the event, raising serious questions about the culture of online sports fandom and the measures needed to safeguard athletes from online hate. The incident is likely to prompt further discussions about stricter regulations and accountability for online behaviour within the tennis community and beyond.
Svitolina’s resilience and willingness to address the issue head-on are commendable. It remains to be seen what concrete steps will be taken to combat online abuse in professional sports, but her voice has undoubtedly amplified the urgency of the situation. She continues her tournament campaign, hoping to focus on her performance and leave the negativity behind.
