TORONTO — Rising tennis star Clara Tauson broke down in tears during her post-match press conference at the Canadian Open after revealing the heartbreaking news of her grandfather’s passing. The 21-year-old Danish player, who had just secured a spot in the semi-finals with a hard-fought victory, struggled to hold back her emotions as she shared the devastating personal loss.
A Triumph Overshadowed by Grief
Tauson, currently ranked No. 45 in the world, delivered a stunning performance against former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko, winning 6-4, 6-4. However, her joy was short-lived as she revealed the tragic news that her grandfather had passed away just days before the tournament. "He was my biggest supporter," Tauson said, her voice trembling. "I wanted to win this for him."
The young athlete explained that she had considered withdrawing from the tournament but ultimately decided to compete in his honor. "He would have wanted me to keep playing," she added, wiping away tears. Her resilience on the court, despite her grief, earned admiration from fans and fellow players alike.
A Career on the Rise
Tauson’s breakthrough performance in Toronto marks another milestone in her rapidly ascending career. Known for her powerful baseline game and mental toughness, she has been touted as one of the most promising young talents in women’s tennis. Key highlights of her career so far include:
- Winning two WTA titles (Lyon 2021, Luxembourg 2021)
- Reaching a career-high ranking of No. 33 in 2022
- Defeating top-10 players, including Ons Jabeur and Anett Kontaveit
Her run at the Canadian Open has further solidified her reputation as a future star. "She’s got everything—power, precision, and the heart of a champion," said former player and commentator Mary Carillo during the broadcast.
The Emotional Toll of Loss
Tauson’s emotional press conference resonated deeply with fans, many of whom took to social media to express their support. The tennis community, known for its camaraderie, rallied around her, with players like Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff sending messages of encouragement.
"It’s incredibly hard to perform at this level while dealing with such a loss," said Tauson’s coach, Olivier Jeunehomme. "But Clara has shown incredible strength. She’s playing for something bigger than herself now."
Looking Ahead
Despite the emotional weight of the week, Tauson remains focused on her semi-final match against top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka. "I’ll give everything I have," she vowed. "I know he’ll be watching."
Her grandfather’s influence on her career was undeniable. He introduced her to tennis at the age of six and attended nearly every major tournament in her junior years. "He believed in me before anyone else did," Tauson shared.
A Touching Tribute
Before her quarter-final match, Tauson wrote a heartfelt message on her shoes: "For Grandpa." The gesture, though small, spoke volumes about the bond they shared. Fans and commentators praised her ability to channel her grief into her performance.
As she prepares for her next challenge, the tennis world watches with admiration and sympathy. Win or lose, Tauson’s courage in the face of personal tragedy has already made this Canadian Open unforgettable.
"This isn’t just about tennis anymore," Tauson said in closing. "It’s about honoring someone who meant everything to me."