Elina Svitolina is unstoppable in the 2026 season. On Friday night the Ukrainian star continued her perfect record at 8-0, defeating 23rd seed Diana Shnaider 7-6(4), 6-3. This win sends Svitolina to the Australian Open fourth round for the sixth time in her career, locking her in as a serious contender for the title.
A Tactical Showdown
The match started as a tense battle of wills, with the 21 year old Diana Shnaider trying to use her power to beat Svitolina’s famous defence. Shnaider, a left-hander who had played hard three-set wins in previous rounds, attempted to play from the baseline, imposing his style of play on his opponent.
However, Svitolina’s ability to take in pace and change the ball’s direction frustrated her opponent.
The first set ended in a tiebreak in which experience was crucial. Svitolina used Shnaider’s unforced errors to lead 5-2, closing out the set 7-6(4).
Taking The Power in the Second
In the second set Svitolina changed gear, as he went from a defensive wall to an aggressive striker. She off to the races, took the ball early and was up by 3 to 1. However, the set wasn’t without drama; a double fault from the Ukrainian allowed Shnaider to break back to make the score all even.
Despite a chaotic exchange of service breaks in the middle of the set, Svitolina held the ship when it was needed the most. Serving at 5-3 she reeled in five straight points in the decisive final game to win in 1 hour and 42 minutes.
By the Numbers
Unlike Shnaider, who was the more aggressive player and hit 23 winners compared to 15 for Svitolina, her risk taking led to 35 unforced errors. Svitolina played a tidier match of 30 unforced errors and five aces.
Svitolina now awaits her next challenge in the Round of 16 when she will face the winner of the next match between world No. 7 Mirra Andreeva and Elena-Gabriela Ruse.
Saurabh is a passionate tennis content writer and lifelong fan of the game. Whether it’s Grand Slam showdowns or under-the-radar rising stars, Saurabh brings the court to life with sharp analysis, breaking news, and deep-dive features. When they aren’t covering matches, you can find them practicing their topspin forehand or debating who is the GOAT over coffee. Do you enjoy tennis? Then you are in the right place.
