Kim Clijsters after her exit from the Dubai Tennis Championships 2002 (Getty)
It wasn’t a winning return for Kim Clijsters against Garbine Muguruza at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
The Belgian made a return to the WTA circuit after almost eight years but was defeated by the Spaniard.
Clijsters, 36, did have some great moments in the clash. However, she lost the match 6-2 7-6 (8-6). The Belgian added that she had some chances to win the second set, but needs more time to adjust to playing professional tennis.
The 36-year-old spoke at length after the loss and was disappointed with the outcome. This was Clijsters’ second return to the circuit, and she highlighted one aspect of Muguruza’s game that was a major difference:
“One of the biggest differences today was how well she [Muguruza] served when she had to come up with great shots.”
The Belgian has four singles Grand Slams to her name but she has never won the French Open or Wimbledon.
Clijsters is a former No.1 and that allows her wildcard entries into all WTA tournaments. She can choose which ones to participate in, and it will be interesting to see where she goes next.
It is always going to be difficult to come back and hit the ground but the Belgian added that she was going to “fight” more and see what happens.
Clijsters has won titles after her first return, she ended up winning three Grand Slams, and that should serve as inspiration for her.
As for Muguruza, the Spaniard lost the Australian Open final to Sofia Kenin. The American is also participating in Dubai, and it will be interesting to see how the tournament goes for both of them.
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