It got largely unnoticed by the media, but Patty Schnyder is making a comeback at the $50,000 Reinert Open in Versmold, Germany. The Swiss is a 36-year-old now and last year she gave birth to a daughter, Kim Ayla.
The former world No.7 got a wildcard into the qualifying draw and according to my photographer’s tweet, I see that he’s pondering whether to show up at the tournament to capture the big moment. Sure, we want your pics and report, Jimmie48! 🙂
Remember, Schnyder ended her illustrious 17-year career in 2011, following her first-round exit at the French Open, and has since been the topic of tabloids for turbulent financial life, as well as the divorce from her husband of almost a decade, Rainer Hofmann. Schnyder has been very discreet about the identity of her new boyfriend, i.e. Kim Ayla’s father.
Recent months have seen a surge of moms rejoining the tennis touring life: Tatjana Maria (at the ongoing Wimbledon beat Bojana Jovanovski in the first round, next up for her is now famous Duan Ying-Ying), Kateryna Bondarenko, Casey Dellacqua (beat Tamira Paszek in Wimbledon round one, next up for her is Elina Svitolina), Evgeniya Rodina (eliminated Laura Robson in the first round of Wimbledon and is scheduled to play Jelena Jankovic), and others.
UPDATE: Patty called off her comeback due to injury! :/ Oh well… (photo: ©Neal Trousdale)
How gorgeous! Although some people used to describe her as “crazy”, I loved to see her play. She was/is one of the most talented female players and could play fabulous tennis when the mood was right. I also liked her natural kind of beauty, so different from all those “model-wannabees”.
Forgot to say, Justine Henin would be another favourite come back, but I do not believe in it for real.
Claire, I’m surprised and glad to see Patty coming back. I’ve been her fan and I’m really excited to see how this return will work out. She’s 36, that’s quite a number.
Emman Damian, not only did Patty beat top players, she herself was a top player. Ranking of No.7 and 11 WTA titles certainly suggest you’re on top.
My friend would be happy to see Patty playing tennis again. She beat top players during her career and I hope to see the old Patty again on WTA tour.
Marija is she coming back because of her financial problems? If yes, It’s a shame that player of her caliber had to play qualies in a small tournament because of money problems. Anyhow I wish her all the best
Sru, it could well be the case. She was a real financial mess. But I don’t know, really.
As long as she will work hard for her money, it’s good. She has talent and as what you have mentioned, she was a top player too. Good luck on her comeback.
It is great beacause she came back with tennis . it is really a motivation for me. the age is not important