The US Open has become a platform for sensational comebacks this year, giving various players the opportunity to reclaim their former glory. While Novak Djokovic’s history-making run and Carlos Alcaraz’s title defense dominate the headlines, several other players have stolen the spotlight with their remarkable returns. Among them are Jennifer Brady, Caroline Wozniacki, and Ajla Tomljanovic, whose stellar performances have captivated the audience at Flushing Meadows.
Jennifer Brady, after a hiatus of nearly two years, made a triumphant return to competitive tennis at the US Open. The 28-year-old American showcased her skills in front of a home crowd and delivered a clinical performance against Australia’s Kimberly Birrell, clinching a 6-3, 7-6 (4) victory at Court 5. This match marked Brady’s first WTA tour appearance since 2021, and she expressed her measured expectations for her comeback, aiming to regain her form without putting undue pressure on herself.
Another notable comeback story is that of former world number one, Caroline Wozniacki. After announcing her retirement following the Australian Open in 2020, the Danish tennis star decided to make a return to the sport less than two months ago. Wozniacki impressed in her first-round match at the US Open, defeating Russia’s Tatiana Prozorova with a comfortable 6-3, 6-2 victory. The 33-year-old, a two-time runner-up at the U.S. Open and now a mother of two, competed in her first Grand Slam match since 2020, marking a significant milestone in her comeback journey.
Ajla Tomljanovic completes the trifecta of remarkable comebacks, having been absent from competition for ten months due to a left knee injury. The 30-year-old Australian tennis player began her US Open campaign with a hard-fought victory over Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, triumphing with a 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 scoreline at Court 4. Despite the emotional significance of her win, Tomljanovic remains realistic about her physical condition and expressed her satisfaction with overcoming the challenges in her path.
As the US Open progresses, the stage is set for the likes of Elina Svitolina and Barbora Strycova to embark on their own comeback journeys. Three-time major semifinalist Svitolina is poised to face Germany’s Anna-Lena Friedsam, while Strycova will encounter Estonia’s Kaia Kanepi in the first round of this prestigious tournament. Their return to competitive tennis will undoubtedly add to the excitement and drama of the US Open.
In a tournament that often showcases dominant players, the 2021 US Open has emerged as a platform for the resurgence of renowned athletes. Jennifer Brady, Caroline Wozniacki, and Ajla Tomljanovic’s comebacks represent the determination and resilience that defines the sport of tennis. As the tournament’s narrative unfolds, these players will continue to captivate the audience with their unwavering spirit and pursuit of greatness.
