Belinda Bencic Triumphs at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open: A Mother's Return to Tennis Glory
Belinda Bencic makes a triumphant return to tennis after maternity leave, securing her first WTA title at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open.
In a stunning comeback, Belinda Bencic overcame Ashlyn Krueger with a score of 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 to win the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, just four months post her maternity leave. This victory marks her first WTA title after becoming a mother, placing her alongside Elina Svitolina as the second mother to do so since May 2023.
A Mother's Victory
Bencic, who is a former world No. 4 but currently ranked outside the top 150, embraced her daughter Bella on the court post her victory. This win is not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment in the WTA tour, being the largest title won by a mother since Victoria Azarenka's 2020 Cincinnati Open triumph.
Tournament Performance
Bencic's performance was flawless, maintaining a 9-0 record at the event which she last won in February 2023. The 27-year-old Tokyo Olympics gold medalist expressed her joy and gratitude, stating her dream of winning in front of her daughter had come true. 'This is the first tournament I've won twice. I will have to come back here for the rest of my career!', Bencic exclaimed.
Match Insights
Krueger started strong, dominating the first set with 21 winners, but Bencic's resilience shone through with minimal unforced errors in the second set. In the final set, Bencic's strategic play enabled her to break early and maintain a lead, culminating in her firing her 30th winner to secure the title after a 2-hour and 23-minute battle.
Inspirational Comeback
Krueger praised Bencic's return to the court post-maternity, calling it inspirational. Bencic's victory not only highlights her skill and determination but also her ability to balance professional sports and motherhood, setting a new benchmark in the world of tennis.
