Belinda Bencic has shared how becoming a mother has transformed her perspective on tennis, leading her to realize that the sport is “not the most important thing” in life. The 26-year-old Swiss player announced her pregnancy in November 2023, and seven months later, she welcomed her daughter, Bella.
Initially, it was anticipated that Bencic, a semifinalist at the 2019 US Open, would not return to competitive play until 2025 due to the timing of her childbirth during the 2024 season. However, she surprised many by making her comeback in late October, participating in three tournaments and finishing as the runner-up in the WTA 125 event in Angers.
Currently representing Switzerland at the United Cup, Bencic has already achieved significant success, defeating France’s Chloe Paquet 6-3, 6-1, and teaming up with Dominic Stricker to win their mixed doubles match against Elixane Lechemia and Edouard Roger-Vasselin with scores of 6-1, 7-6 (4).”I didn’t expect to be back so early. I have huge respect for all the moms. What women go through and the changes their bodies experience is amazing,” Bencic remarked.
Reflecting on her return to the court, she said, “In the matches I played, I felt much calmer. I didn’t feel the same pressure I used to put on myself. Before, tennis was my entire life, and I put so much pressure on myself. Now, it’s just not the most important thing. My priority is my family. I can leave a bad day on the tennis court behind, and that’s something that’s changed.”
Over the years, Bencic has consistently expressed her goal of becoming a Grand Slam champion. With the newfound sense of ease in her approach, she may find that this relaxed mindset positively influences her performance in future Grand Slam events.
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