Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova mentioned she has been inspired by the success of a number of new moms of their return to the WTA Tour, however she is tempering expectations forward of her personal comeback from maternity go away this week.
The previous world No. 2, who turns 35 subsequent month, gave beginning to son Petr final July and can return to the WTA Tour in Austin, Texas, earlier than high-profile hardcourt occasions in Indian Wells, California, and Miami.
New moms Elina Svitolina and Naomi Osaka have each returned to a excessive degree after time away from the sport, whereas Belinda Bencic gained the Abu Dhabi title this month.
“These ladies are fairly younger nonetheless in fact; I’d say my age is totally different,” Kvitova informed the WTA web site. “However we’re used to working arduous. Even after being pregnant and giving beginning we all know what to do and we’re prepared to do it. Once you already performed effectively earlier than, you wish to be again the place you belong, principally.
“Belinda and I are in contact, and it is good she’s taking part in so effectively. Her daughter is like 2½ months older than our Petr, in order that’s enjoyable. She simply confirmed us that it is doable, coming again after giving beginning. That is a very good signal.”
Kvitova meets Jodie Burrage on Tuesday within the first spherical of the ATX Open. It’s Kvitova’s first match in 17 months and she or he mentioned it looks as if an enormous deal.
“Typically I am actually stunned on my own. Like, why I did it? I’d have regretted it if I did not come again,” Kvitova mentioned. “I am not placing any objectives on myself; I will by no means play nearly as good as I used to be taking part in once I was successful tournaments.
“I wish to take pleasure in myself taking part in tennis and it will take time.”
Reuters contributed to this report.
