Kvitova loses to Burrage on return from maternity leave
Petra Kvitova’s much-anticipated return to professional tennis after maternity leave ended in disappointment as she fell to Britain’s Jodie Burrage in a tightly contested three-set battle at the ATX Open. Despite a strong start, the two-time Wimbledon champion ultimately succumbed to Burrage’s resilience, losing 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in her first competitive match since October 2023.
For Kvitova, 34, the match marked a significant milestone in her career, as she returned to the WTA Tour after giving birth to her son, Petr, in July 2023. Having spent over a decade at the pinnacle of women’s tennis, her comeback was widely anticipated, with many wondering if she could follow in the footsteps of players like Elina Svitolina, Naomi Osaka, and Belinda Bencic, who have successfully returned to the sport after maternity leave.
However, standing in her way was an inspired Jodie Burrage, ranked 189th in the world. The 25-year-old Brit, who has battled injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons, seized the moment to claim one of the biggest victories of her career.
A Match of Momentum Shifts
Kvitova Dominates Early:
Kvitova made a commanding start, racing to a 4-0 lead in the first set by showcasing her signature power from the baseline and taking advantage of Burrage’s early nerves. She broke serve twice and seemed on track for a routine victory.
Even as Burrage fought back to reduce the deficit to 5-3, Kvitova’s experience shone through as she secured another break to win the set 6-3. Her booming left-handed forehand and aggressive play had put her in a comfortable position—but the match was far from over.
Burrage’s Resurgence in the Second Set
Despite the early setback, Burrage adjusted her strategy in the second set, playing with greater variety and forcing Kvitova into longer rallies. She broke Kvitova twice in the set, showing remarkable poise under pressure.
Although Kvitova attempted to mount a comeback, breaking back once, Burrage held firm in the ninth game. She then held serve to love, clinching the set 6-4 and shifting the momentum in her favor.
Kvitova loses to Burrage on return from maternity leave
With the match hanging in the balance, both players dug deep in a tightly contested third set. Kvitova looked to reassert control, but Burrage refused to back down.
The defining moment came at 4-4, when Burrage saved four crucial break points to hold serve in a gritty, hard-fought game. The pressure then shifted to Kvitova, and Burrage capitalized, breaking the Czech star’s serve in the next game to move within touching distance of victory.
With the opportunity to close out the match, Burrage remained composed, serving it out confidently to seal a career-defining win.
An Inspirational Return Despite Defeat
While Kvitova would have hoped for a winning return, her performance in the first set showed glimpses of the champion she has been throughout her career. Coming back after maternity leave is never easy, both physically and mentally, and Kvitova’s return to the court in itself was a testament to her determination.
She had previously admitted that she was uncertain about resuming her tennis career after becoming a mother but found inspiration in the successful returns of other players. Speaking about her decision to return, she acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about rediscovering her best form in the months ahead.
For Burrage, this victory marks a significant breakthrough, proving that she can compete with some of the biggest names in the sport. She now advances to the second round, where she will face Australian Ajla Tomljanovic.
What’s Next for Kvitova?
Despite the loss, Kvitova’s comeback journey is just beginning. As she regains match fitness and rhythm, she will likely improve with more matches under her belt. She remains one of the most respected and admired players on the tour, and many will be eager to see how she progresses in the coming months.
Her next tournaments will be crucial in determining whether she can reclaim her place among the WTA’s elite. With her powerful game and vast experience, dismissing Kvitova’s chances of another resurgence would be premature.
For now, her return to the court—regardless of the result—sends a strong message: Petra Kvitova is back, and she’s ready to fight.