Destination Australia: Kerber plans to return for the new season

Returning in early 2024: Angelique Gerber.
IMAGO/Rabbit’s head

Former world number one Angelique Kerber wants to return to the tennis tour early next year after the birth of her daughter. The obvious goal is to play in the Australian Open in 2024, start warm-ups in Australia in January and play in the United Cup team tournament for Germany. “It would be a dream come true to be back at the Grand Slam in Melbourne,” the 35-year-old told Build am Sonntag. Gerber also has Olympic participation in Paris in 2024 in mind.

On the fringes of the grass tournament at Bad Homburg that began at the weekend, Gerber, in her own words, played more than an hour after completing a serious division for the first time. However, the three-time Grand Slam winner wants to give time to regain his usual fitness.

Coach position is still open

In their view, the Bull Classic at Wimbledon starting in early July and the US Open at the end of August may be possible, but not at the desired scale. “I have high expectations for myself and that hasn’t changed. On the other hand, I also know how far I can go back. I don’t want to come back just to play,” explained Gerber.

At 43, she no longer wants to play, the former number one said of American Venus Williams, who is still active at this age. “Maybe later as a coach,” Gerber said of a possible role in tennis at this age. “However, it’s still a little early for such considerations. The left-hander has left it open.”