WIMBLEDON, England – Belinda Bencic, the Swiss tennis player, hasn’t stopped smiling since securing her victory in the Wimbledon quarterfinals. With an impressive performance, Bencic defeated Mirra Andreeva, seeded number 7, in two consecutive tiebreaks, sealing a score of 7-6 (3), 7-6 (2). Bencic’s joy was palpable as the crowd cheered her on center court.
It’s crazy, it’s incredible, it’s a dream come true. I didn’t think about the starting point. I’m speechless. Very happy. It’s my second Grand Slam semi-final overall, and the first at Wimbledon. So yes, just speechless, very happy.
Belinda Bencic
Bencic’s path in this tournament has been remarkable, especially after a season full of challenges. After announcing her pregnancy in November 2023 and giving birth to her daughter Bella in April 2024, Bencic returned to the professional circuit. Although she initially participated in lower-category events, her performance has been on the rise.
Bencic surprised everyone by reaching the fourth round at the Australian Open and winning the title at the Abu Dhabi Open. Despite an injury that forced her to withdraw from Roland Garros, her preparation for Wimbledon was limited. Even so, she has shown an exceptional level of play, accumulating impressive victories.
In her next presentation, Bencic will face Iga Swiatek, five-time Major champion, in what will be her second Grand Slam semi-final, and the first since 2019. Bencic is expected to return to the top 20 of the ranking next week.
I am very proud. In fact, during my entire career, I didn’t say it to myself very much, but after having Bella, I tell myself every day, and I think that changes a lot. But, of course, I have to say that it’s not just me, I couldn’t do it without my incredible family and also my incredible team. We worked very hard on the comeback and we simply enjoy life on the circuit with Bella traveling.
Belinda Bencic
Belinda Bencic jugará su primera semifinal de Wimbledon el jueves contra Iga Swiatek. Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesBencic’s return to professional tennis after becoming a mother is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. Her success follows the returns of players like Victoria Azarenka and Serena Williams, who also returned to the circuit after giving birth. The WTA has even introduced new maternity leave benefits.
Motherhood in the tennis circuit presents unique challenges, from physical demands to the logistics of traveling with children. Bencic, with the support of her husband and fitness coach, Martin Hromkovic, and the accompaniment of her mother, has managed to balance her career and family life.
Bencic has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to the demands of the circuit, overcoming obstacles and remaining competitive. Despite initial doubts about her level of play, she has shown that she is ready to compete with the best.
On the road, Bencic has faced logistical and emotional challenges, but has found a way to manage them successfully. From baggage problems to the need to plan her daughter’s meals, Bencic has shown a great capacity for adaptation.
Before her successful run in Melbourne, Bencic faced Jelena Ostapenko in her first match, and then competed against Coco Gauff in the fourth round. Weeks later, she won the title in Abu Dhabi. The Swiss tennis player has found fundamental support in her family.
Bencic, who has overcome an arm injury that forced her to withdraw from Roland Garros, has shown an unwavering fighting spirit. Despite never having advanced beyond the fourth round at Wimbledon, she faced Andreeva with calm and composure.
On Thursday, Bencic will have the opportunity to reach her first Grand Slam final. Although she has lost against Swiatek in their most recent encounter, she is ready for the challenge. Swiatek, recognizing Bencic’s good form, expects a close match.
Regardless of the outcome, Bencic has found a new perspective. Tennis is no longer the center of her life, and this separation between her professional and personal life provides her with a healthy balance.
