Victoria Azarenka Returns to Tennis at 7 Months Postpartum

Belarusian tennis star and former world number one Victoria Azarenka has announced she will return to the tennis court at this year’s Wimbledon on July 3rd, only seven months after giving birth to her baby boy Leo.

Her last tournament was the French Open in May 2016, where she was in her first trimester of pregnancy, an impressive feat to say the least.

The best Mother’s Day! I’m so thankful to be a mom of this little 😇 and to my mom to show me the best example of how strong, loving, caring, inspiring you are. You taught us what unconditional love is all about and how strive for the best version of yourself. Love you mommy! (My mom doesn’t like photos, so I’m not posting one) ❤️ and to all the mothers and grandmothers out there you are all amazing!

A post shared by Victoria Azarenka (@vichka35) on May 14, 2017 at 12:32pm PDT

Last ranked as number six in the world, Azarenka can retain her ranking if she returns within 12 months of giving birth. Granted, it is a warm-up event prior to Wimbledon and not actually Wimbledon itself. However, she has announced she would play in the Bank of the West Classic at the end of July.

That stands to reason that she has extra time to return to the tennis court, possibly waiting until the US Open in August, or possibly even a smaller tournament closer to December.

Seven months postpartum may seem too soon for some, it may not to others. There are many factors to be considered, including previous training, the type of birth you had, and your variation of normal. When did you feel comfortable starting your favorite activities and exercises postpartum?

Let us know in the comments below!