Tennis Moms’ Comeback: Stars Reshaping the WTA Maternity Leave Success

Summary

Throughout the WTA tour, the tennis moms’ comeback is not only winning matches but also redefining expectations for success after motherhood. These inspiring athletes are showing that balancing motherhood with a professional career is not only possible but triumphant. 🏆

Back in the Winner’s Circle

Belinda Bencic’s Motherhood Return

Belinda Bencic is making headlines with her impressive motherhood return. Less than a year after welcoming her daughter, Bella, she is back in the spotlight. Bencic clinched the Abu Dhabi trophy in February and advanced to the quarterfinals at the BNP Paribas Open in March, including a decisive victory over fellow mother Tatjana Maria. “I definitely didn’t anticipate the comeback being so successful and so early,” she remarked at Indian Wells. Now ranked No. 39, Bencic is swiftly reestablishing her presence in the competitive mix.

Naomi Osaka’s First Title as a Mom

Naomi Osaka’s comeback story is truly inspiring. Recently, in Saint-Malo, she secured her first title as a mom on clay, defeating Kaja Juvan in straight sets. Since giving birth to her daughter Shai in July 2023, Osaka has steadily regained her form, notably reaching the final in Auckland in January. Therefore, she’s increasingly resembling the top player she was before her break.

WTA Maternity Leave Success: Elina Svitolina

Elina Svitolina claimed her first title of the season in Rouen, winning all five matches in straight sets. The former World No. 3 defeated Olga Danilovic 6–4, 7–6(8) in the final, saving two set points in the tiebreak. Since returning from maternity leave in 2023, Svitolina has quickly reestablished herself as a formidable competitor, particularly on clay. Her 18–4 record in WTA singles finals showcases one of the most efficient conversion rates among active players.

Victoria Azarenka: Maternity Advocacy Pioneer

Victoria Azarenka is a trailblazer for mothers returning to tennis. As a member of the Players’ Council, she played a pivotal role in establishing the PIF WTA Maternity Fund. Azarenka resumed competition in 2017 and reached a Grand Slam final three years later. She continues to excel on the court and lead off it. “I wasn’t going to leave tennis until this was in place,” she stated. This Forbes piece explores the evolution of maternity leave policies in sports, including tennis, and their impacts.

Finding the Winning Edge

Petra Kvitova Embraces the Journey

Petra Kvitova’s journey back to the tour is a testament to perseverance. Initially uncertain about returning, she made her comeback at the ATX Open in Austin after giving birth to her son, Petr, in July 2024. Every shot she hit smoothly reminded her of her talent. The challenges of travel, fitness, and life on the road with a baby are ongoing, but Kvitova is not in a rush. “I’m glad to finally have the first win,” she said. This BBC article provides additional context about mothers returning to sports.

Anastasija Sevastova: Persistence Pays Off

Anastasija Sevastova’s signature drop shot remains potent. After giving birth to her daughter Alexandra in December 2022, she secured her first tour-level win in over two years at the 2024 Transylvania Open. However, a severe knee injury in Austin set her back, requiring six weeks on crutches. Now 35, Sevastova is competing on a protected ranking and recently reached the third round in Madrid. “I want to show my daughter you can achieve things when you’re persistent,” she said.

Future Moms’ Club

Anna Karolina Schmiedlova: A New Beginning

Anna Karolina Schmiedlova is the latest player to join the growing group of WTA players balancing their careers with motherhood. The three-time tour titlist and former World No. 26 recently announced her first pregnancy. Schmiedlova, who hasn’t competed since February, reached the Olympic semifinals in Tokyo and has been a regular in Slovakia’s Billie Jean King Cup lineup.

Caroline Wozniacki Expands Her Family

Already a mother of two, Caroline Wozniacki is expecting her third child. The former World No. 1 returned to tennis in 2023 after a three-year hiatus. Wozniacki has balanced motherhood with a second act on tour, reaching the fourth round of the US Open and breaking back into the Top 100. Now 34, she is stepping away again but maintains her message: “I want to show my kids that you can pursue your dreams no matter your age or role.”