Welcome back Kim! Tennis world reacts to competitive Clijsters comeback in Dubai
Kim Clijsters may not have celebrated victory against Australian Open finalist Garbine Muguruza in her first competitive comeback match since 2012, but there were many positives that left the tennis world buzzing with excitement.
Jubilation of Kim Clijsters pictured during her come back ‘s first match against Muguruza
Making her first appearance on the WTA Tour since the 2012 US Open, the Belgian former World No.1 pushed Muguruza hard during a 6-2, 7-6 (8-6) defeat in the first round of the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Not bad Kim Clijsters, don't you think?
(Video @wta) pic.twitter.com/eLRLL8LPIK
— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) February 18, 2020
After an impressive display, especially in the second set, fellow tennis players past and present were quick to jump onto social media to praise the Clijsters comeback.
@Clijsterskim sending a huge message she is ready to compete at highest level. Strong mentally, great ball striking & can’t wait to see more!
— Tracy Austin (@thetracyaustin) February 17, 2020
Seriously so so so proud of Kim Clijsters. You inspire me. Wow. Just wow congrats you did amazing.
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) February 18, 2020
From 2-6 0-3 down @Clijsterskim played a great quality match. Exciting to ponder Kim in the @WTA mix, staying healthy and improving each month of this comeback. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
— Pam Shriver (@PHShriver) February 17, 2020
Win or lose, a VERY impressive performance from @Clijsterskim clean ball striking and astonishing little nerves! 👏👏👏👍👍💪💪
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) February 17, 2020
Prior to the match, Clijsters had as good a practice session as one could want, with World Number 2 Simona Halep.
Welcome back @Clijsterskim 🤗@DDFTennis pic.twitter.com/D3cdXzqO2h
— Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) February 16, 2020
And received a warm welcome back from one of the true greats of the game…
Welcome back, @Clijsterskim! #AlwaysAChampion #DDFTennis https://t.co/6Fq9J65tBq
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) February 17, 2020
Even Muguruza’s coach, Conchita Martinez, was quick to praise the play of her charge’s opponent. Although, of course, she would have been very relieved the match didn’t go the other way!
👏🏼👏🏼 @Clijsterskim Nice to see you back on court, amazing level! 💪🏼 have a great season my friend! https://t.co/PVtLEKfEAW
— Conchita Martínez 💙 (@conchitamartinz) February 17, 2020
