- Ajla Tomljanović, a three-time grand slam quarter-finalist, is making a determined comeback after a 10-month hiatus due to a knee injury.
- Despite the setback, Tomljanović believes “special things can happen” and is confident about regaining her competitive edge.
- The Australian tennis star underwent surgery in January, focusing on recovering both physically and mentally to return to her best form.
- Tomljanović’s remarkable achievements include reaching the Wimbledon and US Open quarterfinals in the same season, a feat not achieved by an Australian since 1979.
- At 30, Tomljanović feels age is not a limiting factor and is optimistic about her career, emphasizing her freshness in both body and mind.
- Leading Australia’s United Cup campaign and preparing for the Adelaide International, Tomljanović sets her sights on a successful return to the Australian Open.
In a compelling comeback story, Australian tennis sensation Ajla Tomljanović is gearing up for a triumphant return to the court after facing a challenging 10 months out of the game due to a knee injury.
Tomljanović, a three-time grand slam quarter-finalist, is optimistic about her prospects and believes that “special things can happen” as she prepares to participate in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
Road to Recovery
Almost a year ago, Tomljanović suffered a setback that forced her out of the Australian Open, disrupting what seemed to be a career-best form.
A knee injury had sidelined her just as she was on the brink of securing a first-time grand slam seeding in Melbourne. Undeterred, Tomljanović embarked on a journey of recovery, determined to regain her health and form.
‘Healthy’ Ajla Tomljanović confident she can contend at Australian Open https://t.co/veALbFXGjT
— Guardian Australia (@GuardianAus) December 20, 2023
Despite the setbacks, Tomljanović is exuding confidence, emphasizing that she can reclaim her spot among the top contenders for grand slam titles. Having undergone surgery in January and successfully regaining confidence in her movement, she believes she is already at a competitive level, with only a 15% gap left to bridge.
Reflecting on her remarkable achievements before the injury, Tomljanović had reached the Wimbledon and US Open quarterfinals in the same season, a feat not accomplished by an Australian since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1979.
Her triumphant victory over Serena Williams at the US Open added to her stellar 14 months of three last-eight major appearances.
While acknowledging the frustration of potentially missing out on her prime years, Tomljanović maintains a perspective that fuels her resilience.
The realization that her career might be over was a “scary” moment for her, but a dose of perspective shifted her focus. She recognizes the world’s challenges, including wars and tragedies, and has chosen to embrace her journey with gratitude and determination.
At 30 years old, Tomljanović believes that age is not a limiting factor in her career. In an era where athletes are defying traditional age expectations, she feels fresh in both body and mind. With a few setbacks over the years, she remains optimistic about her ability to perform at the highest level.
United Cup and Australian Open Preparations
According to a report by ABC News, Tomljanović is set to lead Australia’s United Cup campaign in Perth, starting from December 29. Playing alongside top talents like Alex de Minaur and Storm Hunter, she envisions Australia advancing in a tough pool that includes defending champions, the US, and Great Britain.
Her Australian Open preparations will culminate at the Adelaide International from January 8-13.
In conclusion, Ajla Tomljanović’s journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in her ability to make a triumphant return to competitive tennis. As the Australian Open approaches, tennis fans eagerly expect to witness her comeback unfold on the prestigious courts of Melbourne Park.