Caroline Wozniacki: How Serena Williams backed my comeback to professional tennis

Grand Slam champion Caroline Wozniacki has revealed how tennis legend Serena Williams backed her professional tennis return three years after retirement.

The former world No.1, who retired three years ago to focus on family and motherhood, took to her social media platforms to announce her comeback to tour.

"Over the past three years away from the game, I got to make up for lost time with my family," she wrote.

"I became a mother and now have two beautiful children I am so grateful for. But I still have goals I want to accomplish. I want to show my kids that you can pursue your dreams no matter your age or role.

"We decided as a family it's time. I'm coming back to play and can't wait."

The mother of two had an interview and article written by vogue.com, where she stated her intentions of playing in Montreal to "get back into the groove" before the US Open.

"So I'm going to play the US Open...I'll start our playing in Montreal just to get back into the groove, and then we'll all head to New York."

Consequently, Wozniacki spoke on how multiple Grand Slam champion Williams encouraged her on the comeback. 

“Serena and I had dinner a few weeks ago, and when I told her my plan, she said, ‘Wow, good for you. I’m going to cheer you on every step of the way, and if you ever need anything, I’m here.’ She’s always been there,” said the 32-year-old.

The Dane also made known one of the motivations for returning to professional tennis.

“I talked with a lot of women who gave up on their dreams because they wanted to be with their families, but deep down they have this yearning...I want to show them there’s a way. I want to prove to myself and those women, you can have both.

“Men don’t have to retire to have a family. Roger Federer had four kids. Novak Djokovic two, Rafael Nadal one, and Andy Murray four. For women, it’s mostly been either/or. I’d like to be part of changing this. Victoria Azarenka, Kim Clijsters, and Serena Williams showed what it takes to return. It’s not easy, but possible,” said Wozniacki.

With Wozinizcki coming out of retirement, there is a growing list of tennis moms on tour as Angelique Kerber and Naomi Osaka are also set to join the league soon.