Professional Tennis Players who Resumed Their Careers After Having Babies

In the world of professional tennis, the ability to return to the sport after having a baby is increasingly becoming commonplace. Notable figures like Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, and Margaret Court have made a comeback to both shock and inspire the tennis community. Below, we explore some less known names who have also successfully resumed their careers post-pregnancy.

Postpartum Comebacks in Professional Tennis

It's fascinating to see many women, who were not originally household names, making successful returns to the professional tennis circuit. Besides Serena Williams, there are several others who have managed to balance motherhood with their tennis careers to great effect.

Victoria Azarenka, Kateryna Bondarenko, and Tatjana Maria

Currently on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tour, three other notable players who have resumed their careers post-childbirth include:

Victoria Azarenka: Azarenka, a former world No. 1, had a successful comeback in 2015 and won several tournaments. Kateryna Bondarenko: Bondarenko, a Kyiv native, returned to competitive play in 2016 and had a string of impressive victories. Tatjana Maria: Maria, a German player, returned to the tour in 2019 and showed her prowess in several high-profile matches.

These players have once again demonstrated the tenacity and dedication required to maintain a high level of performance post-pregnancy.

Legendary Comebacks: Kim Clijsters, Margaret Court, and Evonne Goolagong

Of course, some players stand out in the annals of tennis history for their post-birth comebacks. Kim Clijsters, Margaret Court, and Evonne Goolagong are just a few examples of players who have not only returned to the sport but also achieved grand slam wins before and after giving birth.

Kim Clijsters: A Standout Player

Kim Clijsters is perhaps the most memorable example among these players. Clijsters, a Belgian player known for her powerful and agile play, received a wild card at the US Open in 2009, just after giving birth, and went on to win the tournament. Clijsters' comeback was nothing short of spectacular, blending her exceptional skills with a fresh, determination that made her a favorite among fans.

Margaret Court: An Era-defining Player

There is Margaret Court, a player who achieved incredible feats both pre- and post-birth. Court not only won numerous Grand Slams but also regained the top spot each time after giving birth. Her wildcard participation at Wimbledon in 1974, just after her first child, exemplified her outstanding resilience. She is often cited as the greatest player of all time, and this comeback further cements her status in the sport.

Evonne Goolagong: An Australian Legend

Evonne Goolagong, the Australian icon, also made a memorable return to the sport. She regained the number one ranking in 1980 after giving birth to her second child, surpassing Billie Jean King for the top position. Goolagong's achievement underscores her enduring legacy and competitiveness in the tennis world.

Conclusion: Embracing Motherhood in Professional Tennis

The success of these women in combining motherhood with their tennis careers is not just a testament to their skills and athleticism but also a beacon of hope for those who wish to pursue their dreams after becoming parents. The stories of Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, Margaret Court, Evonne Goolagong, and others serve as powerful examples of perseverance and dedication. As the world of professional sports continues to evolve, these historic comebacks remind us that motherhood and a professional career are not mutually exclusive.