OLEKSANDRA Oliynykova has developed an unexpected connection with Filipino tennis fans, who have welcomed the Ukrainian player as their “adopted cousin.”
The affection grew following her meeting with Alexandra Eala, when Oliynykova won praise from Filipino supporters for the way she greeted the Filipina at the net with a warm embrace after their match.
Oliynykova also acknowledged the enthusiastic Filipino crowd, describing their support as remarkable and even picking up a popular Filipino expression along the way.
“Laban,” she said, explaining the word as a reminder to keep fighting and standing one’s ground when circumstances become difficult.
“Fight. Don’t give up. Stand your ground. Even when things don’t go your way. When it feels hard to keep going.”
Her relationship with Filipino supporters deepened when they learned about her fundraising efforts for humanitarian assistance in Ukraine.
Oliynykova has been seeking donations for items such as generators and computers, while her father serves in the Ukrainian army.
Filipino fans responded by supporting her campaign, with contributions helping her exceed her initial fundraising targets within hours, according to the report.
The unexpected show of support also prompted Oliynykova to make an effort to communicate with her new Filipino followers in their language.
She began incorporating Tagalog into her social media interactions and added a Tagalog option to her website’s donation pages.
The Ukrainian tennis player has since openly embraced the nickname given to her by Filipino supporters.
“I really love being your adopted cousin,” she said.
Oliynykova also expressed her gratitude in Tagalog, telling her Filipino supporters: “Maraming salamat mula sa puso,” Oleksandra said. (Adrian Co)
