A fast start in Ohio has put one Ukrainian player in the spotlight, but a major test awaits in the next round.

Ukrainian tennis player Oleksandra Oliynykova claimed a victory at the start of the prestigious WTA 1000 tournament in Cincinnati, Ohio. The tournament’s prize money exceeds $7.4 million.

Oliynykova, who is ranked 46th in the WTA world rankings, defeated American Elvina Kalieva, the world No. 120, in the first round of the main draw.

Oliynykova’s first-round victory

The match lasted nearly an hour and a half. The Ukrainian won convincingly in straight sets, 6–4, 6–1, to advance to the second round of the Cincinnati tournament.

Oleksandra Oliynykova – Elvina Kalieva – 6–4, 6–1.

The Ukrainian’s next opponent

In the second round, Oleksandra Oliynykova will face fifth seed Mirra Andreeva.

The WTA 1000 tournament in Cincinnati will run until August 23.