NEW DELHI: Indian tennis star Sania Mirza on Thursday announced her return to competitive tennis at the Hobart International in January, two years after taking a maternity break.
The 33-year-old, who last played at the China Open in October 2017, will team up with Ukraine’s Nadiia Kichenok — ranked 38 in the WTA doubles chart.
Mirza, who married former Pakistan cricket captain Shoaib Malik, gave birth to her first child — a son the couple named Izhaan.
“I am playing in Hobart, then I am playing the Australian Open,” Mirza was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India news agency. “I am planning to play a tournament in Mumbai, which is a $25,000 (ITF women’s event) next month, but I am 50-50 about it, so let’s see how my wrist behaves. We will see, but Hobart and Australian Open (for sure).”
She added that she had experienced “a lot of change” after having a baby. “Your routine and sleep pattern changes. I (now) feel fit, my body is where it used to be before I had the baby.” The Hobart WTA takes place between January 11-18 and is a key lead-in tournament to the Australian Open.
Shahid Afridi at the Mosa Cricket Stadium in Houston. — Facebook/Moosa Cricket Stadium KARACHI: Pakistan’s T20...
Babar Azam speaks during a press conference. — AFP/FileLAHORE: Several Pakistani players have made notable strides...
The Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. — Facebook/PakStadiumsLAHORE: Iram Javed’s impressive half-century propelled...
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino. — AFP FileLONDON: Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino expects yet another...
The FA Cup trophy is displayed inside the Etihad Stadium on January 7, 2024. — AFP LONDON: Campaign group Fair Game...
World number one Novak Djokovic. — AFP FileLONDON: World number one Novak Djokovic thanked his long-time fitness...