Tunisian tennis player Ons Jabeur takes a hiatus from professional competition
Ons Jabeur, the 30-year-old tennis sensation from Tunisia and a three-time Grand Slam finalist, has announced a break from competitive tennis, citing health issues and emotional strain. Known for her cheerful demeanour and nicknamed the "minister of happiness," Jabeur has been a beacon of inspiration in the Arab world.
Jabeur's announcement came via her social media platforms, where she expressed her feelings about not having felt truly happy on the court for a long time. This sentiment was echoed in her struggle with breathing difficulties due to asthma, which was particularly evident at the 2025 Australian Open and led to her retirement during the first round of Wimbledon 2025.
The past two years have been challenging for Jabeur, who has also battled injuries such as a leg muscle strain at the Miami Open in March and a shoulder injury in 2024 that ended her season early. These physical challenges, along with the emotional strain and the pressure from sponsors mentioned earlier this year, have contributed to her decision to step back from the sport.
Jabeur's immediate plans involve taking time to heal and breathe, both physically and mentally. She aims to rediscover the joy of living and share her journey with fans, even if she is not actively competing. While her current WTA rank is 71, Jabeur holds a career-high ranking of No. 2, indicating a strong background in the sport. Her decision to step back from tennis reflects a growing trend among elite athletes prioritising mental health and well-being.
As for whether she will return to competitive tennis, Jabeur has not ruled out the possibility entirely but has emphasised the need to focus on herself first. Her break from tennis is seen as a step towards healing and potentially returning with renewed energy and happiness in the future.
Jabeur's impact on tennis and her fans will undoubtedly be felt during her time away from the sport. Her resilience, spirit, and dedication have made her a beloved figure in the world of tennis, and her fans eagerly await her potential return.
Despite her high-ranking background in tennis and being a three-time Grand Slam finalist, Ons Jabeur has decided to take a break from the sport due to health issues and emotional strain. Despite this break, Jabeur's enthusiasm for tennis hasn't diminished, as she shares her love for sports, particularly tennis, through her social media platforms and her journeys towards healing.
