The Dane retired in 2020 to start a family with former NBA player David Lee, but after having two children, he has decided to return. Three years after her retirement, former world number one Caroline Wozniacki has announced her return to tennis. The Dane retired in January 2020 in order to establish a family with former NBA star David Lee.
The now-mother of two had a trophy-laden career, earning 30 WTA Tour-level titles, including the 2018 Australian Open. She dominated the rankings for a total of 71 weeks due to her achievements.
Wozniacki will prepare her racket and footwear for the 2023 US Open, which begins on August 28, after receiving a wildcard for the tournament. Next year, the 32-year-old intends to also compete at the Australian Open and the Olympics in Paris.
Wozniacki told Vogue about her triumphant tennis revival and asked, “Am I nervous? “Not really,” said Wozniacki. “I’m returning to something I adore. Can I win the United States Open? I believe so. Is it possible for me to win the Australian Open? I believe so. This is why I am doing it. And we shall see what transpires.
If I didn’t believe in myself, I wouldn’t be doing this; I’m too competitive to show up and not believe I’ll be one of the greatest players there.
She also mentioned how Serena Williams inspired her to return, with the 23-time Grand Slam champion giving birth to Olympia in 2017 and returning to the Wimbledon and US Open finals in 2018 and 2019, respectively. The American then officially retired from tennis in Queens, New York, last year.
Wozniacki continued, “Serena and I had dinner a few weeks ago, and when I told her about my plan, she simply exclaimed, ‘Wow, excellent for you. I will support you every step of the way, and if you ever need anything, I’ll be here. She has always supported me.
Serena is not given nearly enough credit for reaching so many Grand Slam finals after giving birth to Olympia. She demonstrated that anything is possible by paving the way for so many of us.
Williams was among the first to respond to Wozniacki’s return announcement, posting on Instagram, “I literally can’t wait. I’m relieved I no longer have to remain mute about this.”
Wozniacki is currently married to former NBA basketball player David Lee; the couple welcomed daughters Olivia and James in June 2021 and October 2022, respectively.
In a tweet, the tennis superstar said, “I became a mother and now have two beautiful children for whom I am so appreciative, but I still have goals to achieve. We have collectively decided it’s time. I cannot wait to return and play again.
I want to demonstrate to my children that you can pursue your ambitions regardless of your age or position. One, two, or three years? I’m not sure. However, I am aware that in five years, when the children are in school, it will be too late.”
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