Tunisian Star Back in Action at Madrid Open After Healing Period
MADRID: Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur is back on the WTA Tour this week, returning to the Madrid Open after recovering from a calf injury that sidelined her for a month. The 2022 champion says she is “glad” to have taken the time to heal — both physically and mentally.
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Ratatouille-Inspired Mindset Fuels Her Journey
A quote from the animated movie Ratatouille continues to inspire Jabeur: “Your only limit is your soul.” It’s a mantra that perfectly captures the Tunisian’s approach to tennis — and life.
“It connects believing with not giving up,” Jabeur told Arab News. “Honestly, that touched me. I love it.”
Historic Champion and Cultural Icon
Jabeur’s resume is full of historic milestones. She became the first Arab and African woman to win a WTA 1000 title in 2022 when she triumphed in Madrid, then soared to a career-high world No. 2, later reaching Grand Slam finals at Wimbledon and the US Open.
Off the court, she continues to be an icon. This week, she met Nawal El-Moutawakel — the first Arab woman to win Olympic gold — calling it a “huge honor.”
Recovery, Reflection, and Return
After suffering a calf injury at the Miami Open, Jabeur spent weeks rehabbing in Tunis and reconnecting with her roots. She returns in Madrid feeling “90 percent good” and ready to gradually ramp up her game.
“I’m done forcing my body to play any tournaments that I don’t feel like playing,” she said. “This year, I just want to listen to my body.”
Support System and Mental Strength
Jabeur credits her comeback mindset to her close-knit team — husband and fitness coach Karim Kamoun, coach Issam Jellali, and psychologist Melanie Maillard.
“Melanie helps me with the stress before matches, anxiety, and understanding my worth,” Jabeur explained. “Even the most successful people doubt themselves. It’s fascinating.”
Still a Light on the Tour
Despite the setbacks, Jabeur remains one of the most beloved players on the WTA Tour — known for her humor, humility, and genuine care for her peers.
“I believe that tennis is a happy place for me,” she said. “If one day it’s not, then there is actually a problem. But for now, I’m enjoying it, so it’s good.”
Match Update: Jabeur is scheduled to face Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima in her second-round opener at the Caja Magica in Madrid.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a powerful message of self-belief, Ons Jabeur returns not just to win — but to inspire.
Written by Arab News Sport
Categories: Tennis, Sports News, Athlete Features
Tags: Ons Jabeur 2025, Madrid Open tennis, Arab athletes, African tennis, WTA comeback, inspirational sports stories, Ons Jabeur interview
