Oliynykova’s Mission: From Kyiv Air Raids to Australian Open Debut

MELBOURNE, January 19, 2026 – When Oleksandra Oliynykova steps onto Rod Laver Arena for her first Grand Slam main draw match on Tuesday, she will carry more than just her tennis bag. The 25-year-old Ukrainian will bring the weight of a nation at war, the inspiration of a father defending his country, and a story of resilience that propelled her from outside the Top 300 to the world’s brightest sporting stages in just one year.

A Meteoric Rise Forged in Adversity

Oliynykova’s 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular. Starting the year ranked No. 322, she embarked on a stunning run of form, particularly on her favoured clay courts. She captured three WTA 125 titles – at Tolentino, Tucumán, and Colina – and registered her first career Top 100 win by defeating world No. 67 Solana Sierra. This incredible surge saw her break into the Top 200 for the first time in July and culminate in a Top 100 debut at No. 95 in late November. Her season record stood at an impressive 70 wins and 21 losses.

Key Facts & Career Stats

More Than a Match: A Father’s Sacrifice

Oliynykova’s transformation was not just technical or tactical; it was profoundly personal. In the summer of 2024, her father Denis – who is also her primary coach – volunteered to join the Ukrainian army. “I’ve gotten this feeling that I should be here, at the biggest tournaments, to speak my story,” Oliynykova explained in a recent interview. “I know that I can help a lot. I can help my country by sharing my story.” This newfound purpose became her driving force, replacing any lingering self-doubt with a powerful mission to represent her homeland on the global stage.

Life and Training in a War Zone

In a testament to her dedication, Oliynykova is the only Ukrainian professional tennis player who continues to live and train in Ukraine, specifically in her hometown of Kyiv. She describes a reality far removed from the pristine courts of Melbourne. “The day before I started my trip to Australia it was a massive attack on Kyiv and my apartment was shaking because of an explosion somewhere really near my home,” she recounted. Despite the constant threat, she remains committed to her base, drawing strength from her surroundings and her cause.

Canadian Connections and Context

Oliynykova’s story resonates deeply within Canada, home to the largest Ukrainian diaspora in the Western world with over 1.3 million people of Ukrainian descent. The community has been a pillar of support for Ukraine, advocating for aid and welcoming refugees. Notably, former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, who is of Ukrainian heritage and speaks the language, recently resigned from Parliament to take on an unpaid role as an economic development advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This move underscores the deep political and humanitarian ties between Canada and Ukraine.

Furthermore, the Canada-Ukraine Foundation and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress have been instrumental in coordinating humanitarian aid and advocacy. Canada has committed nearly $22 billion in multi-faceted assistance to Ukraine since the 2022 invasion, the largest per capita contribution among G7 nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Oleksandra Oliynykova playing at the Australian Open?

Oliynykova faces a formidable first-round challenge against No. 9 seed and former finalist Madison Keys of the United States. The match is scheduled for the evening of January 20 on Rod Laver Arena.

What is Oliynykova’s playing style?

She describes herself as a defensive player whose favourite surface is clay. She grew up admiring Roger Federer.

How can fans follow her mission beyond tennis?

Oliynykova uses her platform to support her father’s military unit, the 412th Separate Brigade of Unmanned Systems. Her Instagram handle, @_drones4ua.org_, directs followers to a website where they can contribute to funding for drones and other essential equipment for Ukrainian forces.