Petra Kvitova, who boasts two Wimbledon titles to her name, feels heartened by the successful comebacks of several fellow players who returned to the WTA Tour as new mothers. However, as she prepares to step back on the court following her maternity leave, she’s keeping her ambitions in check.
The 34-year-old former world No. 2, who will celebrate her 35th birthday next month, welcomed her son Petr in July. She’s marking her return to professional tennis at the tournament in Austin, Texas, gearing up for significant events in Indian Wells, California, and Miami.
Elina Svitolina and Naomi Osaka, both new mothers, have made impressive returns to their former playing levels. Belinda Bencic also recently clinched the Abu Dhabi title, adding to the momentum of these returning athletes.
“Those women are still quite young, of course; I’d say my situation is a bit different given my age,” Kvitova remarked in an interview with the WTA website. “But we’re all used to rigorous training. Even after pregnancy and giving birth, we know what it takes and are prepared to put in the work. If you’ve played well in the past, there’s a drive to reclaim that level of performance.”
Kvitova shared that she stays in touch with Bencic, noting how encouraging it is to see her perform so well. “Her daughter is just about 2½ months older than our Petr, which is a fun coincidence. She’s proven that returning to form post-birth is absolutely possible, which is really inspiring.”
Kvitova’s first challenge is set for Tuesday against Jodie Burrage in the opening round of the ATX Open. This match is her first in nearly a year and a half, and she acknowledges the significance of this moment.
“There are times I surprise myself, wondering why I push through,” she said. “Yet, I’d have regretted not making a comeback. I’m steering clear of setting any lofty goals; I know I might not reach the heights of my prime when I was winning titles.”
“My main aim is to simply find joy on the court again, even if it takes a while,” she added.
This report includes contributions from Reuters.
