In a thrilling display of resilience and determination, Swiss tennis player Belinda Bencic secured her victory at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, defeating Ashlyn Krueger with a scoreline of 4-6, 6-1, 6-1. This momentous achievement comes just four months after Bencic returned to professional tennis following maternity leave. The 27-year-old athlete, who welcomed her daughter Bella in April, has made a magnificent return to the sport, reminding the tennis world of her talent and grit.
Bencic’s victory is not just another title; it marks a significant milestone in her career, as she becomes the first mother to win a WTA singles title since Elina Svitolina’s victory in Strasbourg earlier this year. The fact that Bencic managed to compete at such a high level shortly after childbirth is commendable and speaks volumes about her dedication to both motherhood and her sport.
This title is particularly notable as it represents the largest achievement by a mother on the WTA tour since Victoria Azarenka clinched the Cincinnati Open in 2020, which is categorized as a WTA 1000 event. This win not only elevates Bencic’s position in the sport but also serves as an inspiration to many female athletes who face the challenges of balancing professional careers with motherhood. The narrative of returning champions who navigate the complexities of family and sport enriches the discourse around women’s athletics, highlighting the importance of support systems both on and off the court.
Bencic, previously ranked as high as No. 4 in the world, finds herself outside the top 150, making her resurgence all the more impressive. Her performance in Abu Dhabi has rekindled hope for her fans and supporters, indicating that this comeback could signal a new chapter in her professional journey.
During the match, Krueger initially took control, showcasing a powerful game and closing out the first set with an impressive 21 winners. However, Bencic showcased her tactical prowess in the following sets. Limiting her unforced errors to a mere three in the second set, she managed to regain her composure and momentum. The final set saw Bencic dominate, breaking Krueger’s serve multiple times to secure a commanding lead. After two hours and 23 minutes of intense competition, Bencic celebrated her victory with an emotional embrace of her daughter, encapsulating the dual roles she maintains as both an athlete and a mother.
Krueger’s commendation of Bencic as an inspirational figure reflects the admiration shared by peers within the tennis community. Such victories are crucial not just for the athletes involved but also for shaping perceptions regarding the capabilities of mothers in competitive sports. Bencic’s message extends beyond sport; it is a testament to the resilience of women everywhere, balancing their ambitions with the joys and responsibilities of parenthood.
As she raises her trophy high, it serves as a reminder that dreams can be realized with perseverance, regardless of the obstacles faced along the way. Bencic’s future in tennis looks bright, and as she declared, there’s a strong intention of returning to Abu Dhabi for years to come. It seems this title is only the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable chapter in her illustrious career.