For many players, the 2024 tennis season is a chance for redemption, but for others, it is a season of comebacks.
One player returning to the circuit after spending the past 18 months on maternity leave is Angelique Kerber. The German lefty turns 36 next month but has committed to playing next season. She'll join the conveyor belt of mothers who have excelled in the second phase of their careers.
Kerber is a three-time Grand Slam champion, and returning to Australian soil rekindles fond memories from her peak years. She won her first major title at the 2016 Australian Open, beating the legendary Serena Williams.
It is only a matter of days before she makes her long-awaited return to the United Cup, scheduled to kick on December 29. Kerber has been selected to represent her country in the tournament's second edition along with ATP star Alexander Zverev, and it is the perfect prep for her before Melbourne.
The tour looks a lot different from the last time she played. Kerber has since given birth to a baby girl in February and resumed training soon after with an eye on the new season.
"To come back to the tour in Australia is the perfect start for me, especially for Team Germany at the United Cup. It’s been 18 months away from professional tennis and a lot has happened since then with the birth of my baby daughter. I’ve heard great things about the event and the strength of the player field is really impressive."
Playing for her country is a huge honor. Kerber was a silver medalist at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and couldn't pass up the opportunity of playing in the mixed-gender team competition and is excited to reconnect with the Australian fans.
"Representing my country in the past has always been an honour. Even more so, it’s a special occasion for me to play my first match back on the tour for Team Germany at the United Cup. Each group is difficult, but I’m hoping we’ll have a good run."
"The fans are so great and really love the game. I’ve played at many different cities here over the years and I’m truly excited to start my season once again down under."
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