Caroline Wozniacki Ends Retirement, Returns to Tennis



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Caroline Wozniacki Ends Retirement, Returns to Tennis
Caroline Wozniacki Ends Retirement, Returns to Tennis

Caroline Wozniacki, the former world number one in women's tennis, has made a surprising announcement by revealing her decision to come out of retirement after a three-year break from the sport. The Danish tennis star, who captured the Australian Open title in 2018 and reached the finals of the US Open twice in 2009 and 2014, is now setting her sights on a grand slam return at Flushing Meadows later this year.

In a heartfelt message shared on Twitter, the 32-year-old expressed her gratitude for the time she spent away from the game, which allowed her to make up for lost time with her family and become a mother to two beautiful children.

However, she also emphasized that she still harbors unfulfilled goals and is determined to show her children the importance of pursuing dreams regardless of age or circumstances. Wozniacki stated, "We decided as a family it's time.

I'm coming back to play, and I can't wait!"

Wozniacki's Triumphant Tour Return

Throughout her career, Wozniacki clinched an impressive tally of 30 tour-level titles. Her last match took place in the third round of the 2020 Australian Open, where she was defeated by Ons Jabeur.

Revealing her plans to Vogue, Wozniacki confirmed her participation in the upcoming US Open, highlighting the electric atmosphere and her fondness for competing in New York. Prior to that, she intends to make her comeback at the Canadian Open in Montreal to regain her rhythm before heading to the major tournament.

Meanwhile, the UK government's culture secretary, Lucy Frazer, expressed confidence in the adherence of Russian and Belarusian players to the strict neutrality guidelines imposed for their participation in Wimbledon. Following the ban on players from these countries in 2022 due to the Ukraine invasion, this year's Championship allows their involvement under specific conditions.

Frazer emphasized the importance of implementing measures related to the ongoing war and stated that procedures are in place to ensure compliance with the guidelines. Wimbledon's decision aligns with the other three Grand Slam tournaments, allowing players from Russia and Belarus to compete.

Notable names such as Daniil Medvedev, the current men's world number three, and Aryna Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion ranked second by the WTA, are expected to make their return. These players are required to sign a personal declaration of neutrality, refraining from expressing support for the Ukraine invasion or the leaders of Russia and Belarus.

Additionally, they are prohibited from receiving state sponsorship and displaying symbols associated with the war or the Russian and Belarusian regimes. As preparations for Wimbledon continue, British tennis player Cameron Norrie, who has been making waves in the sport, shared his experience of embracing the expectations and responsibilities that come with being the country's leading player.

Reflecting on a coffee run with fellow tennis star Andy Murray, Norrie witnessed Murray's patience and interactions with fans, which inspired him to do the same. Norrie rose to prominence after his impressive performance at Wimbledon last year, reaching the semifinals and garnering wider recognition.

The 27-year-old is now focused on maintaining his position in the world's top 15 and is eagerly looking forward to competing at this year's tournament. Finally, June 29th marked an important milestone in Wimbledon's history as the newly installed roof over Centre Court was closed for the first time during a match.

The fourth-round clash between Dinara Safina, the world number one from Russia, and Amelie Mauresmo had to be halted due to rain. The state-of-the-art roof, which took seven minutes to close, had been eagerly anticipated and added a new dimension to the tournament, protecting the court from inclement weather and allowing play to continue uninterrupted.