Angelique Kerber believes winning Olympic gold is just as important as capturing a Grand Slam title

Former World No.1 Angelique Kerber gave her opinion on the Olympic Games in a recent interview, claiming winning a medal at the quadrennial event was just as important as winning a Grand Slam title.

The three-time Major titlist sat down with Vogue Germany this week, where she opened up on her thoughts regarding the Olympics, and her mindset competing at the event as a first-time mother. Kerber took some time off to give birth to her daughter in February 2023, but has since returned to active competition on the WTA Tour.

The German tennis star won the silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, and described the opportunity to compete again in Paris as a huge highlight. Although the tennis event takes place on the familiar clay courts of Roland Garros, Kerber believes the experience is completely different due to the special atmosphere and circumstances surrounding the Olympics.

"You can only play a match at the Olympic Games once every four years," explained the 36-year old. "Representing your country becomes even more important. It’s a different feeling when you're wearing the outfit with the national eagle and the national colors. Being together in the Olympic Village. You don't get that kind of atmosphere at a normal tournament—not even at the Grand Slams.”

Furthermore, Kerber spoke on her mentality competing at the Olympics as a mother. She highlighted the differences in dealing with a tennis career while raising a child.

"We are a generation in which more and more mothers are returning to competitive sport," said Kerber. "I also think that's extremely important. That you still have a job for yourself,” she tells the magazine. Of course, children always come first, but ultimately, if you are happy with yourself and do what you love—be it a job or a hobby—then you can give much more back to your child and the other people around you."