Monica Seles' return to professional tennis in August 1995 marked a significant moment in sports history, following a two-year hiatus caused by an on-court stabbing incident in 1993. After becoming a U.S. citizen in 1994, Seles re-entered the competitive world of tennis, facing both personal challenges and professional debates surrounding her reintegration into the sport. Her comeback was not just about playing tennis again; it was a testament to her resilience
and determination to reclaim her place among the sport's elite.
The Road Back: Overcoming Adversity
The period leading up to Seles' return was fraught with difficulties. The stabbing incident on April 30, 1993, left her not only with a physical wound but also struggling with depression and an eating disorder. These personal battles kept her off the professional tour for over two years, a significant amount of time in a demanding sport like tennis. Her decision to return in 1995 signaled a powerful personal victory over these profound challenges, demonstrating immense courage and a deep love for the game.
Her re-entry into the sport was met with considerable attention and some controversy. The WTA president, Martina Navratilova, proposed that Seles be reinstated as a joint number one alongside Steffi Graf. This proposal, while supported by Graf, faced opposition from other players, including Arantxa Sánchez Vicario and Gigi Fernández, who were concerned about the impact on their own rankings. The debate highlighted the unique circumstances of Seles' return and the desire to acknowledge her previous dominance while maintaining fairness within the ranking system.
Immediate Success and Continued Challenges
Despite the long break and the surrounding discussions, Seles quickly proved her competitive spirit upon her return. She won her very first comeback tournament, the 1995 Canadian Open, defeating Amanda Coetzer in the final. This victory was a powerful statement, signaling that she was still a formidable force on the court. Her performance earned her the WTA Comeback Player of the Year award in 1995, an honor she would receive again in 1998, underscoring her sustained effort and success after her return.
While Seles secured a ninth major championship at the 1996 Australian Open, she found it challenging to consistently produce her best tennis in the years that followed. The lingering effects of her ordeal and the intense pressure of professional sports likely contributed to this. She continued to compete, playing her last professional match at the 2003 French Open. Her career after the comeback, though marked by fewer major titles than her initial dominant period, still showcased her exceptional talent and enduring commitment to tennis.
Final Retirement and Lasting Legacy
In December 2007, Seles briefly considered another limited comeback, inspired by Lindsay Davenport's successful return to the tour. She contemplated playing Grand Slam tournaments and major warm-up events. However, on February 14, 2008, Monica Seles officially announced her retirement from professional tennis. Her remarkable career was recognized in January 2009 when she was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, solidifying her place as one of the sport's all-time greats. Her journey, particularly her comeback, remains an inspiring story of perseverance against extraordinary odds.
