Elina Svitolina’s heartfelt message to Belinda Bencic after their match in Dubai

Elina Svitolina advanced to the Dubai Tennis Championships quarter-finals on Wednesday after defeating Belinda Bencic in three sets.

Bencic, 28, took a 6-4 lead in the match before 30-year-old Svitolina fought back to win the second set 6-1.

After two hours, Svitolina emerged triumphant, defeating Bencic 6-3 in the final set.

Both Svitolina and Bencic have enjoyed strong periods of form in recent months, with Bencic winning the United Cup and Svitolina reaching the Australian Open semi-finals.

Earlier this month, the pair became the first set of mothers in tennis history to be ranked inside the WTA top 10.

Elina Svitolina says it was ‘special’ to share the court with Belinda Bencic

“Of course it’s a special one as always,” Svitolina said of her match with Bencic.

“I have a lot of respect for all the moms on tour and in sport in general. It’s really inspiring for the women around the world.

“We keep pushing. It’s amazing from everybody.”

Svitolina, ranked ninth on the WTA Tour, is set to face Antonia Ruzic on Thursday after Elena Rybakina retired from her third-round contest against the Croat.

Rybakina’s withdrawal has given Svitolina a real opportunity to capitalise. Coco Gauff is now the only seeded player – aside from Svitolina herself – remaining in the Ukrainian’s half of the draw.

If Svitolina defeats Ruzic on Thursday, she will face Gauff or Alexandra Eala in the semi-finals.

If the 30-year-old reaches the final, she will play Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova or Mirra Andreeva.

Alexandra Eala’s admiration for Elina Svitolina

Alex Eala has become one of the most popular players on the WTA Tour, as demonstrated by the incredible atmospheres throughout her matches at the Dubai Tennis Championships.

Earlier this year, Eala and Iva Jovic had the opportunity to play against Venus Williams and Elina Svitolina at the ASB Classic.

Eala and Jovic, aged 20 and 18, defeated Williams and Svitolina 7-6, 6-1.

After the match, Eala spoke of her admiration for Williams and Svitolina, saying: “I had such a great time on the court. We had a lot of fun and starting the year with such a moment is something really special.

“Sharing the court with two pioneers of sports and tennis means a lot to me.

“These are people I’ve admired since I was young, so I’m very happy to have been able to share this moment with them and all of you [addressing the audience]. They are great players and this is a big moment in their careers. I’m grateful to be part of it.”