Ukrainian refugee Yastremska falls just short in Lyon final

The 21-year-old Yastremska only fled her home in war-torn Odessa, Ukraine, last week following the Russian invasion.

Published : Mar 07, 2022 11:45 IST

FILE PHOTO: Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine during the Australian Open.

Ukrainian refugee Dayana Yastremska took Zhang Shuai to three sets on Sunday in the final of the Lyon Open that the Chinese player eventually won 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

The 21-year-old Yastremska only fled her home in war-torn Odessa, Ukraine, last week following the Russian invasion.

She spent two nights sheltering in an underground car park from missile strikes before escaping with her 15-year-old sister Ivanna through Romania while their parents stayed behind in Odessa.

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The 140th-ranked Yastremska had a remarkable run to her fifth career final after being given a wild card to play at the tournament. She beat second-seeded Sorana Cirstea 7-6 (5), 4-6, 6-4 in the semifinals.

Zhang won her third career title.