• Petra Kvitova won her first match since returning from maternity leave, defeating Irina-Camelia Begu at the Italian Open.
• Kvitova expressed that she was 95% sure she would not return to tennis before her pregnancy.
• Kvitova is set to face Ons Jabeur in the second round of the Italian Open.

Petra Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion, marked a successful return to professional tennis by winning her first match after maternity leave at the Italian Open in Rome. She defeated Irina-Camelia Begu in straight sets. Kvitova's victory is significant given her previous doubts about returning to the sport and adds an inspiring chapter to her already impressive career.

• What: Petra Kvitova won her first match since returning from maternity leave at the Italian Open, defeating Irina-Camelia Begu.
• Who: Petra Kvitova, Irina-Camelia Begu, Ons Jabeur, Sonay Kartal, Kimberly Birrell, Cameron Norrie
• When: May 6, 2025 - Kvitova's win. She was away for 15 months during her maternity leave.
• Where: Rome, Italy, at the Italian Open (Internazionali BNL d'Italia) on clay courts of the Foro Italico.

Kvitova's victory at the Italian Open marks a significant achievement in her comeback journey. Her candid admission about doubting her return adds depth to her accomplishment, highlighting the mental and emotional challenges athletes face. Her win could signal a resurgence in her career, however, she still needs to improve her fitness. It is noteworthy how motherhood has impacted Kvitova's perspective. Her preference for apartment rentals over hotel rooms reflects the practical adjustments athletes make to accommodate family life on tour.

I was 95% that I would never come back. I had enough of tennis at that time. I was like, 'I can't do it any more' - so we decided to try for a baby.

When I could do something finally after pregnancy, I played some tennis and it felt so good. I was laughing. Every shot I hit smoothly, I was like, 'Wow - it's still there.'

Kvitova's triumphant return at the Italian Open marks not just a resurgence, but a powerful narrative of motherhood and athletic perseverance. Overcoming initial doubts about returning to professional tennis after a 15-month hiatus and the birth of her son Petr in July 2024, her victory against Irina-Camelia Begu signifies a renewed sense of joy and passion for the sport. Now ranked No. 602 in the world, Kvitova approaches her next challenge against Ons Jabeur with a relaxed mindset, emphasizing enjoyment over immediate results. This match will be held on May 8, 2025. Having previously expressed being "95% sure" she wouldn't return, Kvitova's comeback embodies the ability to rewrite one's narrative, playing now for personal fulfillment and inspiring others with her resilience. As the tennis world watches, her journey in the Italian Open represents a celebration of her storied career and a testament to the enduring spirit of a champion embracing a new chapter.