Angelique Kerber, a three-time major champion and former world No. 1, recently opened up about her comeback to tennis after taking time off to have her first child, Liana. Like other WTA stars such as Naomi Osaka and Caroline Wozniacki, Kerber decided to return to the sport following a period of maternity leave. She has shown promising signs in her recent run to the last 16 of Indian Wells, where she beat seeds Jelena Ostapenko and Veronika Kudermetova before losing to Wozniacki. Kerber stated that she no longer feels pressure and that her focus is on playing the game she loves.
Speaking ahead of the Stuttgart Open, Kerber emphasized that her passion for tennis remains strong and that the expectations of others no longer influence her. She expressed gratitude for the support of the fans and the strength she derives from being on the court. After her successful performance at Indian Wells, where things “clicked” for her, she gained confidence in her abilities and in the progress of her comeback. She highlighted the importance of patience and hard work in achieving success after a long break from competitive tennis.
Kerber made her return to tennis at the United Cup in January and has since played in four tournaments leading up to her appearance in Stuttgart. She shared how she has managed the transition to being a mother while traveling with her young daughter. Kerber acknowledged that patience is not her strong suit but recognizes the importance of giving herself time to regain her form on the court. She emphasized that being a mother has shifted her priorities and that her daughter is now the most important person in her life. Despite the challenges of balancing motherhood and a professional tennis career, Kerber expressed gratitude for her daughter’s adaptability and resilience during their travels.
As a mother on tour, Kerber highlighted the need for flexibility and spontaneity in adapting to the demands of traveling and competing. She emphasized the importance of taking things one day at a time and constantly reorganizing schedules to accommodate her daughter’s needs. Kerber expressed her appreciation for Liana’s ability to cope with the challenges of flights, time changes, and varying climates, making it easier for her to navigate the demands of her dual roles as a mother and a professional athlete. She remains determined to continue pursuing her passion for tennis while also prioritizing her responsibilities as a parent.
In conclusion, Angelique Kerber’s reflections on her comeback to tennis offer insight into the challenges and rewards of balancing motherhood with a professional sporting career. Her focus on prioritizing her daughter’s well-being while continuing to pursue her passion for tennis underscores the resilience and dedication required to succeed in both roles. Kerber’s journey serves as an inspiration to other athletes navigating the complexities of parenthood and professional sports, highlighting the importance of patience, flexibility, and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. Her positive outlook and determination to succeed despite the challenges she faces demonstrate her resilience and commitment to overcoming obstacles in pursuit of her dreams.
