Two-time Wimbledon finalist and US Open finalist Ons Jabeur announced that she is taking a break from tennis. Jabeur, who will turn 31, at the end of August, was ranked a career-high World No. 2 in June 2022.
Jabeur took to social media to share that she has been pushing herself hard for two years but feels it is time to take a step back. More alarming is that Jabeur, who is nicknamed the Minister of Happiness, has not felt happy on the court. With the persistent injuries and mental strain, it is not surprising that Jabeur retired in her first round Wimbledon match the last time she was on court.
Ons Jabeur has been the flag bearer for Tunisian tennis, and her game, when she is healthy, is so fun to watch. Her smile and laugh are also infectious. We don’t know exactly what her timeline is, and perhaps she does not either. Given the way the post is written, it would not be surprising if she skips the US Open and the rest of the 2025 season.
Taking a break is becoming more en vogue for tennis players. Frankly, with an 11-month season of endless training and travel, it is not surprising players are starting to consciously do it more frequently. Recovering from injuries and trying to get back on tour without losing ranking points is a tiring process.
Amanda Anisimova is the recent success story for taking a break. She didn’t play for most of 2023. Anisimova has talked about how she needed to find herself and her joy away from the sport. That involved taking classes and working on herself. The 2025 Wimbledon finalist is now back, refreshed and with a healthier mental outlook, and in the Top 10 for the first time in her career.
The WTA should take notice of Ons Jabeur and Amanda Anisimova
Jabeur is reiterating what other players have said in recent years, the tennis season is too long and demanding. There is scarcely time away from the court in the one month after the WTA Finals and before Australian Open warmup tournaments get underway.
“I’ve never felt this empty before. Just lacking joy…”
-Alexander Zverev#TheBreakTC | #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/R6AatINwBl— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) July 6, 2025
Men’s players have also shared similar sentiments with the most recent one being Alexander Zverev. It is time for the WTA and ATP Tours to pay attention and do something to show they care about their players physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
