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Two mothers, one last-16 battle: Svitolina vs Bencic in Dubai
The Ukrainian was leading 6-4 when Badosa decided to retire due to a thigh injury, joining a long list of players who have withdrawn from the tournament
- PUBLISHED: Tue 17 Feb 2026, 9:25 PM
Having earned a walkover after her round of 32 opponent Paula Badosa retired due to an injury, Elina Svitolina admitted that it was not the ideal way to win a match.
The Ukrainian was leading 6-4 when Badosa decided to retire due to a thigh injury, joining a long list of players who have withdrawn from the tournament.
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But Svitolina smiled when asked about her next opponent, Swiss star Belinda Bencic.
Svitolina and Bencic made headlines recently for breaking into the top 10 of women’s world rankings after their maternity breaks.
Now, Tuesday will see a clash of two mothers in the round of 16 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
“We actually practised two days ago, we know each other’s game well. Of course, we also have similar stories, both mothers coming back to the sport, which is great for tennis,” said Svitolina.
“It’s going to be another good challenge for both of us. She is a very good player, she is an in-form player, so I have to bring my best game.”
A two-time Dubai champion, Svitolina arrived for this year’s edition of the tournament on the back of a semifinal appearance at the Australian Open.
Married to French tennis star Gael Monfils, the 31-year-old then opened up about balancing motherhood and tennis.
“It takes a lot. First of all, it’s such a precious moment for me and Gael to welcome our daughter (Skai), it takes time also to adjust to (motherhood),” she said.
“Also, it’s about adjusting body-wise, you know. When I started training again (after becoming a mother), it took me a bit of time to adjust to the practice routines, but also to be match-ready. It’s all about adjusting to the new demands and being at the best level again."
Rituraj Borkakoty is Sports Editor and has spent more than two decades writing on his sporting heroes. He also loves an underdog story, so if you have one, share it with him. He would love to bring it to life.
