MELBOURNE: Angelique Kerber’s return to Grand Slam competition concluded with a whimper in the 1st round of the Australian Open on Tuesday.
Despite the setback, the determined new mother expressed her commitment to persist. Making her comeback in a major event after an 18-month break for childbirth, the German put up a valiant effort but ultimately yielded to Danielle Collins, the 2022 Melbourne Park finalist, with a score line of 6-2, 3-6, 6-1.
The unseeded Collins is now set to face world number one Iga Swiatek. Kerber’s journey back from break, guided by longtime coach Torben Beltz, has been marked by challenges, including a recent series of losses at the United Cup preceding her exit from the tournament, she previously triumphed in back in 2016.
“For sure it is a long way to be back and to play on a high level again. But on the other side, I have the experience, I know how it is,” she said.
“I played so many Grand Slams over the years. So, I am more trying to find my rhythm, to being on court and feeling good again.
“I mean, I played here, won the event, and you want to get far in the draw. But on the other side, it is my first real tournament, and I know that it needs time.”
“Also, it is a completely new situation off court, so I have to get used to that,” she added.
Collins faced three breaks in the initial set, yet Kerber, a three-time major winner, mounted a comeback. In the second set, the 35-year-old German thwarted two break points in the sixth game, subsequently securing her own break point in the following game. Capitalizing on a double fault from Collins, Kerber surged ahead 4-3.
This marked a pivotal moment for the former champion, providing a glimmer of hope. She swiftly claimed victory in the subsequent two games, leveling the match. Despite Collins persisting, she managed to secure a decisive break in the third game of the final set, eventually breaking twice more to secure a resounding victory.
