In the dynamic world of professional tennis, few athletes showcase resilience, talent, and emotional strength like Belinda Bencic. The Swiss tennis star has not only climbed the WTA rankings but also made headlines with her historic comeback as a mother. From winning Olympic gold to reaching the Wimbledon 2025 quarterfinals, Bencic’s journey is a perfect blend of grit and grace.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on March 10, 1997, in Flawil, Switzerland, Belinda Bencic began playing tennis at the age of three. Trained under Melanie Molitor (mother of Martina Hingis), she quickly rose through the ranks in junior tennis. In 2013, she achieved the world No. 1 junior ranking, winning Roland Garros and Wimbledon junior titles.
She turned professional in 2012, and by 2015, she had already made her mark by winning her first WTA title and breaking into the Top 10 rankings.
Rise to Prominence
Bencic reached a career-high ranking of World No. 4 in February 2020. Known for her aggressive baseline play and strategic shot selection, she won major WTA titles, including:
- Toronto Rogers Cup (2015)
- Dubai Championships (2019)
- Adelaide International (2023)
- Charleston Open (2022)
- Olympic Gold Medal in Singles (Tokyo 2021)
- Olympic Silver Medal in Doubles (2021)
Her breakthrough Grand Slam performance came in 2019, when she reached the semifinals of the US Open, defeating top-seeded players en route.
Motherhood and Break from Tennis
In April 2024, Belinda welcomed her daughter Bella, marking a new chapter in her life. During this time, she also married her longtime partner and fitness coach Martin Hromkovic, a former football player. Bencic took a brief break from professional tennis, focusing on family and recovery.
Her return to the sport in October 2024 was met with skepticism—but she silenced critics with performances that proved she’s stronger than ever.
Comeback of a Champion
Just four months after returning to the court, Bencic won the Abu Dhabi WTA 500 title in February 2025, becoming the first mother to win such a high-level title in over five years. Her emotional speech after the win resonated worldwide:
“Tennis no longer feels like life and death to me. I already feel like I’ve won in life.”
Her comeback wasn’t just inspiring—it was dominant. She showcased improved strength, mental composure, and a fearless playing style.
Wimbledon 2025: Breaking New Ground
Bencic created history once again at Wimbledon 2025, reaching her first-ever quarterfinal at the prestigious Grand Slam. She defeated Ekaterina Alexandrova in a thrilling fourth-round match, making headlines as the only mother left in the women’s draw.
This performance stirred comparisons with legends like Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters—both of whom made waves as mothers on the tennis court.
Playing Style and Strengths
Belinda Bencic’s game is built on:
- Aggressive baseline play
- Quick court coverage
- Powerful forehand and backhand returns
- High tennis IQ and tactical acumen
She adapts well to all surfaces, especially excelling on hard and grass courts. Since her comeback, fans and analysts have noted a marked improvement in power and endurance, likely due to her renewed training focus with husband and coach Martin.
Off-Court Life
Outside the court, Bencic is grounded, family-oriented, and enjoys hobbies like painting, baking, and spending time with her dogs. She also supports various causes and remains a positive role model for young athletes—especially mothers.
She’s endorsed by Yonex and has previously worked with brands like Nike, Adidas, and Alpian Bank.
Conclusion
Belinda Bencic’s journey is more than just a sports story—it’s a narrative of perseverance, transformation, and triumph. From junior prodigy to Olympic champion, and now a trailblazing tennis mom, Bencic continues to break barriers and inspire fans worldwide.
As she eyes a maiden Grand Slam title, Belinda Bencic remains one of the most admired and determined athletes in modern tennis.