LONDON — Two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur has announced an emotional break from professional tennis, citing physical and mental exhaustion following a grueling season. The Tunisian star, a fan favorite known for her electrifying performances on grass, revealed her decision in a heartfelt statement shared on social media.
Jabeur, who reached back-to-back Wimbledon finals in 2022 and 2023, has struggled with injuries and form in recent months. Her announcement comes after a disappointing early exit at this year’s Championships, where she fell in the second round to Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina. "My heart and body need time to heal," she wrote. "I’ve given everything to this sport, but now I must step away to recover and return stronger."
A Career-Defining Journey
Jabeur’s rise to the top of women’s tennis has been nothing short of inspirational. Nicknamed the "Minister of Happiness" for her infectious positivity, she became the first Arab and North African woman to reach a Grand Slam final. Her breakthrough at Wimbledon in 2022, where she lost to Elena Rybakina, was followed by another runner-up finish in 2023 against Markéta Vondroušová.
Her unique playing style, blending deft drop shots with powerful groundstrokes, made her a standout on grass. However, the toll of competing at the highest level has been evident. In her statement, Jabeur acknowledged: "The last two years have been the most rewarding but also the most challenging of my career."
Physical and Emotional Struggles
Jabeur has battled multiple injuries in 2024, including a recurring knee issue that forced her to withdraw from several tournaments. She also opened up about the mental strain of expectations, particularly from fans in the Arab world who saw her as a trailblazer. "Carrying the hopes of millions is a privilege, but it’s also a heavy burden," she admitted.
Key challenges Jabeur faced this season include:
- A knee injury requiring medical timeouts during matches
- Early exits at the French Open and Wimbledon
- Difficulty maintaining consistency after coaching changes
Support from the Tennis Community
Fellow players quickly rallied behind Jabeur. World No. 1 Iga Świątek tweeted: "Ons, take all the time you need. Tennis will miss your energy, but your health comes first." Wimbledon organizers also shared a tribute, calling her "one of the most beloved competitors in recent memory."
What’s Next for Jabeur?
While Jabeur didn’t specify a timeline for her return, sources close to the player suggest she may skip the US Open to focus on recovery. Her team emphasized that this is not a retirement announcement but a necessary pause. "Ons loves this sport too much to walk away permanently," said her longtime fitness coach.
Analysts believe Jabeur’s game is well-suited for a comeback, particularly on grass. Former champion Martina Navratilova noted: "She has the talent to win Wimbledon. This break could be exactly what she needs to reset."
A Legacy Beyond Tennis
Even in her absence, Jabeur’s impact on the sport remains undeniable. She inspired a generation of young Arab athletes and brought unprecedented attention to Tunisian tennis. Her foundation, which supports underprivileged athletes in Africa, will continue operating during her break.
As Jabeur signed off her statement: "This isn’t goodbye—it’s ‘see you soon.’ Thank you for believing in me even when I struggled to believe in myself." The tennis world now waits eagerly for the next chapter of her remarkable journey.