Two-time Dubai champ Elina Svitolina takes on Mercedes-Benz Off-Road Experience

Ukrainian star steps away from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships to tackle rugged terrain as both passenger and driver at Dubai Design District

Dubai, UAE – 17 February 2026: Elite competition often demands calm under pressure, quick decision-making, and trust in instinct—qualities world No9 Elina Svitolina knows well from life on the WTA Tour. This week in Dubai, those same skills were tested in a different environment as the two-time Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships winner took on the Mercedes-Benz Off-Road Experience at Dubai Design District.

Stepping away from her on-court routine ahead of the WTA 1000 event, Svitolina explored the purpose-built off-road track first as a passenger before moving behind the wheel herself. Guided by an experienced instructor, she navigated steep inclines, rocky terrain, and technical obstacles designed to challenge control and confidence.

Reflecting on the experience, Svitolina said: “It was a lot of extreme rushes, from the hills and inclines to the rocks. It was a really great experience, especially for someone who enjoys that kind of adrenaline. I really enjoyed it and would definitely come back.”

For the former World No3, the similarities between off-roading and professional tennis were immediately clear. “I think it’s quite close to tennis, because when you’re playing matches it’s like being on a roller coaster. Sometimes you just have to accept it, play with it, and learn how to navigate extreme situations.”

The experience also provided a mental reset during a demanding tournament week.

“For me, it’s nice to do something fun off court. I love extreme conditions, and it brings me back to what I experience on the court. When you stop playing tennis, that’s what you miss the most, and experiences like this bring you back to something you really enjoy.”

After experiencing the course from the passenger seat, the Ukrainian opted to take control herself, embracing the opportunity to drive.

“I love extreme experiences—they make me feel alive, but also in control. With this car and the instructor next to me, I felt confident to really go for it. It’s something that really wakes up those extreme feelings in me.”

Svitolina arrives in Dubai in strong form after reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open, marking a positive start to her 2026 season. A champion at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships in 2017 and 2018, she returns to a tournament that holds special significance in her career.

“It was important for me to have a good start to the season and play well in Australia, so I feel like I’m in a good position,” she said. “I try my best to prepare for Dubai—I’ve won here twice and it’s always a great place to come back to. The draw is full of great players, so I have to be ready from the first match, and I’ll do my very best to go far.”

The WTA 1000 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships runs from 15–21 February at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium and features 16 of the world’s Top 20 and 33 of the world’s Top 40. It is followed by the ATP 500 men’s event from 23–28 February.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from Dh65. For full details, visit ticketmaster.ae or dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com