Bencic wins Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open in triumphant comeback
ABU DHABI: Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic claimed her first WTA title since returning from maternity leave, defeating American Ashlyn Krueger 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 in the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open final.
In just her fourth tournament since giving birth to her daughter Bella last April, the 27-year-old secured her first title since 2023, also at Abu Dhabi.
Krueger, 20, made a strong start with 21 winners in the first set, but Bencic, a former World No. 4 and 2021 Olympic gold medalist, dominated the remainder of the match. The Swiss star produced 13 winners with just three unforced errors in the second set to level the contest.
Bencic broke Krueger’s serve early in the third set and sealed victory with her 30th winner after two hours and 23 minutes on court. The emotional moment was capped off by her holding her baby during the trophy presentation, marking a heartwarming milestone in her inspiring comeback.
