In her first competitive tennis match in three and a half years, former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki defeated Australian Kimberly Birrell on Tuesday at the Canadian Open, winning 6-2, 6-2.
The 33-year-old Wozniacki declared her retirement following the 2020 Australian Open, although she also hinted at a potential comeback in June.
In Montreal, she easily defeated qualifier Birrell in her first match back on the tour in 1,293 days to advance to the second round and face Wimbledon champion Markéta Vondrouová.
In her on-court interview, 2010 Canadian Open champion Wozniacki commented, “It feels great.” “It was my first match after more than three years, and I could see I was a little rusty.
“However, what a fantastic spot to return to and play my first game. I adore performing in Montreal. Here, I have some wonderful recollections.
Before declaring her retirement, Wozniacki won 30 singles matches, including the 2018 Australian Open.
Since then, she and her husband, former NBA star David Lee, have welcomed two children. She continues to be involved in tennis by competing in legends doubles tournaments and serving as an analyst for ESPN and Tennis Channel.
Wozniacki announced her return to tennis in a first-person essay for Vogue and stated that she was aiming for the US Open this year. Later, it was revealed by the US Tennis Association (USTA) that the Dane would receive a wild card into the tournament’s women’s singles main event.
