Over the past few years, we have witnessed a wave of tennis mothers leaving their mark on the WTA Tour. From Victoria Azarenka to Naomi Osaka, nothing can stop these powerful women from setting an example. Similarly, Belinda Bencic is aiming to join this big league of mothers shining on the tennis circuit. In order to do so, the Swiss star has been bolstered by the presence of her little one.

Earlier this year, Bencic gave birth to her first daughter, Bella. Having announced pregnancy toward the end of the last season, Bencic has been away from tennis for quite some time now. However, she aims to make a return at the Billie Jean King Cup Finals next month. Bencic has already started her preparations for the big tournament with the presence of her daughter.

To prepare for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals, the 27-year-old will participate in the ITF 75 tournament in Hamburg. With the city being close to her hometown, Bencic’s daughter has also accompanied her to the tournament. Narrating the experience of her daughter being with her on tennis tours, Bencic said, “She flew with us for the first time. It was a cool experience and everything went smoothly. I’m running without any pressure and I’m sure I still have a lot of potential.”

Bencic made a sweet announcement of the birth of her daughter in April this year. Taking to social media, she shared a glimpse of the newborn and wrote, “Bella, 23.4.2024. Our love.” Further, Bencic was last seen in action at the San Diego Open in September last year. With over 13-month break, Bencic would look to adjust to the tennis circuit quickly ahead of the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.

Despite being a newly-turned mother, tennis will be one of the top priorities for Bencic. She sounded confident as she announced her comeback plans.

Belinda Bencic on her comeback: ‘Still have a few good years ahead’

At 27, Bencic still has a long way to go in her career. While she has been away from the sport for 13 months, the Swiss hopes to adjust to the new beginnings quickly as she aims to have a successful career as a mother. Last month, she revealed her comeback plans and sounded confident to make a strong start.

Bencic said, “It was clear that I would come back after that [her pregnancy]. I’m 27, I feel good, I still have a few good years ahead of me on the tour. I’m very happy with the way we’re doing things. The goal for coming back is still the Billie Jean King Cup in November. Playing tennis is like riding a bike, you don’t forget it – but I have to get even fitter. I’m also still breastfeeding. You have to take that into account. Martin is adapting my fitness plan accordingly. My body feels good.”

Bencic, who has been handed a wildcard entry in the ITF 75 tournament in Hamburg, will face Julia Avdeeva in the first round. Can the Swiss star have a successful return post-pregnancy? Let us know your views in the comments below.