After a three-year hiatus, former world number one Caroline Wozniacki has made a resounding announcement, revealing her decision to return to professional tennis.
The Danish tennis star bid farewell to the sport in January 2020, opting to embark on a new chapter of her life by starting a family with her husband, former NBA player David Lee.
Now, as a proud mother of two, Wozniacki looks to reignite her illustrious career that has been adorned with numerous trophies, including a remarkable victory at the 2018 Australian Open and an impressive tally of 30 WTA Tour-level titles. Her accomplishments on the court have propelled her to the top of the rankings for a combined total of 71 weeks.
Wozniacki’s highly anticipated comeback will take place at the 2023 US Open, where she has been granted a wildcard entry for the event commencing on August 28th. Additionally, the 32-year-old tennis sensation plans to compete in the Australian Open and the Paris Olympics the following year, demonstrating her renewed dedication and ambition.
In an interview with Vogue, Wozniacki expressed her excitement for the upcoming challenge, stating, “Am I nervous? Not really. I’m coming back to something I love. Can I win the US Open? I think so. Can I win the Australian Open? I think so.
That’s why I’m doing this. And I guess we’ll see what happens. If I didn’t believe in myself, I wouldn’t be doing this: I’m too competitive to just show up and not feel like I’m going to be one of the best players out there.”
Furthermore, Wozniacki shared how the inspirational journey of Serena Williams motivated her to make a comeback. Witnessing Williams’ remarkable return to the finals of Wimbledon and the US Open in 2018 and 2019, following the birth of her daughter Olympia in 2017, deeply inspired Wozniacki.
Serena’s own retirement from professional tennis in Queens, New York last year only added to the admiration Wozniacki holds for the 23-time Grand Slam champion.
Reflecting on her conversation with Serena, Wozniacki revealed, “Serena and I had dinner a few weeks ago, and when I told her my plan, she just said, ‘Wow, good for you.
I’m going to cheer you on every step of the way, and if you ever need anything, I’m here.’ She’s always been there for me. Serena doesn’t get nearly enough credit for getting to so many Grand Slam finals after having Olympia. She paved the way for so many of us, she showed us that anything is possible.”
Serena Williams was quick to celebrate Wozniacki’s decision, expressing her excitement on Instagram, “Literally can’t wait. So glad I don’t have to be silent about this anymore.”
Wozniacki, who is happily married to David Lee, welcomed their first child, daughter Olivia, in June 2021, followed by the birth of their son James in October 2022. Taking to Twitter, the tennis superstar shared a heartfelt statement, stating, “I became a mother and now have two beautiful children I am so grateful for, but I still have goals I want to accomplish.
We decided as a family it’s time. I’m coming back to play, and I can’t wait. I want to show my kids you can pursue your dreams no matter your age or role. How long will I be able to play at my highest level—a year, two years, three years? I don’t know. But I know that five years from now, when the kids are in school, it will be too late.”