Stepping beyond one’s comfort zone is never simple. Especially when someone has established their expertise in a specific sport. Ons Jabeur is no exception in that aspect. However, nothing is hindering her from exploring the world beyond tennis, even if she is not actively participating in it. Fortunately, Jabeur’s husband has helped smooth her transition.
Jabeur is currently preparing for her Canadian Open campaign. Before starting her North American hardcourt swing, the Tunisian made an appearance on the Match Point Canada podcast. While discussing various topics, the former World No. 2 revealed her interest in exploring sports outside of tennis by spectating different events at the Paris Olympics. To her surprise, she discovered a keen interest in gymnastics!
She mentioned that her in-laws’ involvement in gymnastics has motivated her to learn about the sport. Specifically, she admitted to growing fond of the highly intense athleticism. “I’ve been watching a lot of gymnastics, to be honest with you, which I never did before. I’ve been gaining some understanding. My father-in-law used to do gymnastics. My sister-in-law as well. And so my husband loves gymnastics, he was explaining to me how it works. And, yeah, I’m pretty impressed with that. I’m gaining a better understanding and honestly, discovering different sports as well.”
The World No. 16’s newfound passion for the sport appears to have a reason. Jabeur has been continuously battling a recurring knee injury. Nevertheless, Jabeur is determined not to let her injuries hold her back and hopes to continue playing despite the challenges.
“Medically I need to give it a little bit of time. It is what it is. The knee, it’s always going to bother me and I’m always going to play with it.” However, despite her optimism, she was unable to participate in the Olympic event this season.
Ons Jabeur would have been one of the top contenders for a coveted gold medal at the Paris Olympics if she had been free from physical concerns. However, that was not the case. The Tunisian star has had a difficult season dealing with a knee injury, which has affected her performance on the Tour. This also resulted in her absence from the quadrennial event.
Two weeks ago, the 29-year-old announced her withdrawal from the Paris Games. After extensive discussions with her medical team, Jabeur was advised not to change surfaces. Furthermore, she expressed her fitness concerns and aimed to keep her knee in good condition. “After consulting with my medical team, we have decided that the quick change of surface and the body’s adaptation required would put my knee at risk and jeopardize the rest of my season. Unfortunately, I will not be able to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics.”
For those unfamiliar, the former World No. 2’s biggest title on clay courts came at the 2022 Madrid Open. Despite injury scares, Jabeur managed to reach the quarterfinals of the Roland Garros.
The Tunisian will face Japanese sensation Naomi Osaka in the opening match of the Canadian Open on Wednesday, August 7. If she can deliver a strong performance, there is a chance she may turn her luck around this season at the US Open!
Photo from Ons Jabeur Instagram
