Elina Svitolina and Zheng Qinwen are set to square off in a charity match at Melbourne Park, just days before the Australian Open.
For the past few years, the Ukrainian tennis star has been very outspoken about the war in Ukraine and trying to collect funds for her country.
Now, the former world No. 5 is set to be a part of another charity event for Ukraine. And it will be quite something since her rival will be current world No. 5 and Paris Olympics gold medalist Zheng.
The match is scheduled for January 8th and the funds collected will be distributed to support Ukrainian children.
Svitolina, Zheng opted not to play any tournaments leading up to the Australian Open
After struggling with a foot injury for quite some time, the Ukrainian surgically repaired the issue in mid-September.
While the 30-year-old is ready to return and set to play at the Australian Open, she decided against playing any tournaments leading up to the opening Grand Slam of the year.
On the other side, Zheng was due to start her season at the United Cup. But she changed her mind at the last moment because she wasn't rested enough.
"Hi everyone, just a quick update that I'm sadly not going to be competing at the United Cup next week. After the long season that 2024 was for me, I need a few extra weeks of rest, recovery, and good training to get ready for the new season, the Chinese tennis star announced on December 22nd.
However, Svitolina and Zheng are now guaranteed to get at least some action before the Australian Open.
On the WTA Tour, they have no previous meetings.
Although it will be a charity match and both players very likely won't go with full strength, it will still be very exciting for fans to have a chance to watch Svitolina and Zheng meet in Melbourne early.
