CNN
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Daria Snigur devoted her shock victory In her Grand Slam debut against Simona Halep US Open Monday to his home country Ukraine.
World number 124 and US Open qualifier Snigur defeated seventh seed Halep 6-2 0-6 6-4 in the first round at the Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Later, as feelings began to take hold with him, he had a message for his compatriots back home.
“It’s a victory for Ukraine, for all the Ukrainian people, for my family, for my team,” she said after the court match.
“The situation is definitely bad. I try to do the best for Ukraine, I try to support my country.
“It’s not that easy because the war is on. Sometimes, it’s impossible to play but I try to do my best because I want to be in Ukraine.
Despite appearing on the second-highest court for a Grand Slam debut against tennis’ hottest player at the moment, Snigur never looked disheartened when he faced a top-10 opponent for the first time in his career.
Playing only in his third WTA-level match, he dominated Halep with his unorthodox style, running into a one-set lead to calm any nerves.
However, two-time Grand Slam winner Halep showed her experience by winning the second set in just 24 minutes and making the deciding final frame.
But, showing a resolve that defies his experience, Snigur was not spared at all. When Halep began to make a comeback, the 20-year-old took a 5-1 lead just a game away from victory.
The Romanian narrowed the score to 5-4, but as Snigur worked for the match, Halep’s backhand pulled off just a memorable win.
As soon as it was realized that she had claimed her first Tour-level victory, her hands reached her face in shock and tears began to flow.
“I am very happy. I am very, very, very nervous,” said Snigur, the 2019 junior Wimbledon champion. “But I tried to do my best.”
Last week, Snigur said “tennis plays for peace“Relief in the middle of the qualification rounds for the event US Open for Ukraine. According to the United States Tennis Association, the event raised $1.2 million.
Snigur is one of five Ukrainians in this year’s draw.