After three and a half years of retirement, Caroline Wozniacki, the former world No.1 and mother of two, is on the cusp of a remarkable comeback in professional tennis. Immortalized by photographer Jimmie48, her first practice session in Montreal marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Dane’s illustrious career.
Preparations are in full swing as Wozniacki readies herself for the National Bank Open in Canada, where she is set to play her first match since January 2020. Her opener against a qualifier is scheduled for August 8th.
Under the guidance of her father Piotr, Wozniacki engaged in a practice session alongside Spain’s world No.33, Paula Badosa in Montreal on Friday.
The WTA 1000 National Bank Open holds special memories for Wozniacki, as this will mark her 12th appearance at the prestigious event. Notably, the Adidas-sponsored WTA star claimed the title back in 2010 when the tournament was known as the Rogers Cup.
As the 33-year-old makes her return to professional tennis, she also faces the challenges of balancing her athletic pursuits with her role as a dedicated mother. With both of her young children, Olivia and James, still under the age of three, her journey back to the sport serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment and determination.
When it comes to her schedule later this month, the 2018 Australian Open champion has been granted a wildcard entry for the upcoming US Open.
Besides practicing with Badosa, Wozniacki was all smiles while participating in a basketball exhibition together with Czech WTA players Karolina Muchova and Marie Bouzkova.
As the date of her first match draws near, the atmosphere surrounding Wozniacki’s comeback is one of admiration and support. Her return to the professional circuit represents an inspiring story of resilience and determination, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
I don’t think her comeback is remarkable at this point. Lets see how she plays. Also remember she has an awful lot of money and can pay for whatever help she needs either in coaching, physio or psychology as well as home and childcare support. Mind you it is good to see more women being able to have children without giving up their career. Svitolina seems to be doing well so far. However Azarenka has never got back to where she was – although she did have a much longer break than she otherwise would due to the custody dispute.
CLT, for me, any mother that comes back is an achievement by itself, especially when you’re not in your early 20s anymore. If they manage to make some good results, all the better. I know they have a lot of money and support, but still it is not easy. I think Azarenka’s comeback has been very successful, after all, she’s a Top 20 player at the moment. Also she won the Western & Southern Open in 2020 and followed it with the US Open final.
Less than 20 years ago there were very few moms on tour — I remember Sybille Bammer and she was very young. This is from her Wikipedia page: “She was one of three mothers on the WTA Tour, having taken time off at age 21 to have her daughter Tina before returning to the tour. When she won the 2007 Pattaya Open, it was the first time in 18 years that a mother won on tour, after Laura Arraya in 1989.”
I remember that only 15 years ago there were no nearly as many 30yo+ players on tour, let alone 30yo+ moms. This is a very positive development and a trend that will probably gain even more momentum. Good luck to Caroline!
Yes I agree Azarenka has done well. I just meant she was no 1 before and had won grand slams and she hasn’t got back to that. I recall one commentator saying her movement was not as good now and that is the factor contributing to the difference. But also there has probably been a generational change of players while she was missing in action and maybe her playing style doesn’t work so well against the new ones that have come up.