Kim Clijsters: Former world No 1 to return to tennis in 2020 after coming out of retirement
Kim Clijsters has announced that she will be returning to competitive tennis in 2020 after coming out of retirement.
Four times a Grand Slam singles champion, the Belgian retired in 2012 and has spent the last seven years as a full-time mother to her three children.
However, in a statement released on Twitter, Clijsters confirmed that she would attempt to balance the two and come back to tennis next year.
“For the past seven years, I’ve been a full-time mum. And I love it. I really, really do.
“But I also loved being a professional tennis player.And honestly, I miss that feeling.
“So, what if i tried to do both – could I be a loving mum to my three kids and the best tennis player I can possibly be?
“Let’s do this. Let’s come back one more time.
“See you in 2020.”
Clijsters won three US Open singles titles and an Australian Open during her initial 15-year career, as well as Grand Slam doubles titles on grass and clay with Ai Sugiyama in 2003.
She did not lose a match at the US Open between 2003, when she was beaten in the final, and 2012, winning all three tournaments in which she competed.
“Kim Clijsters ranks among the greats of the game and her return to the Tour is exciting news for the WTA family and tennis fans around the world,” said Steve Simon, Women’s Tennis Association Chairman and CEO.
“Driven by her love for the sport, this wonderful champion continues to inspire women and men in all walks of life – and she only adds to the compelling wealth of talent in women’s tennis. I wish Kim all the best in this next chapter of her playing career.”
As a former world number one, Clijsters is eligible for unlimited wild cards at WTA tournaments. She will need play three tournaments or earn 10 ranking points to re-establish a ranking.
