It’s been two weeks since Belinda Bencic lifted the WTA 500 trophy in Abu Dhabi, in just her fourth Tour-level event since returning from maternity leave. The former world No. 4 and Olympic singles gold medalist had always believed in her ability to compete at the highest level as a mother. But speaking on the Tennis Insider Club podcast, the Swiss star admitted she knew not everyone shared that view.
“When I started my comeback, most people were like, ‘Oh, for sure, it’s not possible,’ you know? So, I always feel like people change their minds so quickly. And it’s fun for me to to be like, ‘Oh, okay, you believe in me now, huh?,’” she told host, and fellow pro, Caroline Garcia.
“It’s very classic. I had so many people saying: ‘Why she did this decision now in the middle of her career? It’s not possible to be back at the same level.’ But now (after Abu Dhabi) they say: ‘Yeah, she can win the Grand Slam for sure.’ I’m like, you changed your mind in one week!”, she laughed.
