Ukrainian Tennis Star Marta Kostyuk Reaches Her First Wimbledon Semifinal After Defeating Italy's Top-Ranked Player

Ukrainian tennis player Marta Kostyuk advanced to her first Wimbledon semifinal after defeating Italy's top-ranked player, Jasmine Paolini, in straight sets on July 8.

According to Suspilne Sport on July 8, Kostyuk secured a 6-3, 6-2 victory in the quarterfinal in a match that lasted one hour and 10 minutes.

The result marks a career milestone for the Ukrainian, who reached the Wimbledon semifinals for the first time and climbed into the WTA live top 10 rankings for the first time in her career.

According to Suspilne Sport, Kostyuk also became only the second Ukrainian woman to reach the Wimbledon singles semifinals after Elina Svitolina, who achieved the feat in 2019 and 2023.

In the semifinals, Ukrainain tennis player will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Czech player Linda Nosková and Belgium's Elise Mertens.

The 2026 Wimbledon Championships are being held in London, United Kingdom, and will conclude on July 12.

Kostyuk's growing international profile has also extended beyond the court, reflecting a broader trend of Ukrainian athletes becoming creative inspirations for leading global brands.

Ahead of Wimbledon, sportswear brand Wilson unveiled the updated “MARTA DRESS,” continuing its collaboration with the Ukrainian player.

According to Vogue, two years ago, the original design, inspired by Kostyuk’s wedding gown, became one of the tournament's most talked-about outfits, with fashion experts and tennis fans praising its successful blend of Wimbledon tradition, contemporary tennis fashion, and Kostyuk’s personal story.

The texture of the new “MARTA DRESS” version—which consists of a sports bra, vest, and skirt—echoes the floral lace patterns traditionally found in Ukrainian lace curtains.

The dress was developed in close collaboration between Kostyuk and Wilson Creative Director Joelle Michaeloff, who said:

“Marta has been our muse in designing performance apparel since we began working together in 2023. What we've created together is truly special,” Wilson Creative Director Joelle Michaeloff said.

Another Ukrainian woman tennis player, Elina Svitolina has returned to the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) top 10 for the first time in five years, according to the latest rankings.

The Ukrainian previously spent four consecutive years among the world's top 10 players, reaching a career-high ranking of No. 3 in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

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