"Distressing for everyone to see": Henman and Schett on emotional defeat for Jabeur at Australian Open

Ons Jabeur suffered an early exit at the Australian Open and she was very emotional due to it surprising tennis analysts Tim Henman and Barbara Schett.

Jabeur has suffered quite a bit of heartbreak at grand Slam events lately losing twice in the final. She also added early exits at Roland Garros last year and Australian Open this year leaving her frustrated. Winning a grand slam has been a longstanding dream for Jabeur who aims to become the first Arab woman to do so.

After losing the match to Vondrousova, Jabeur was spotted kneeling in the player tunnel which was shown as the analysts were preparing to analyse the match. Both Henman and Schett reacted to it. Henman said:

“It’s distressing for everyone to see. She’s been out there on court giving it everything. She’s the No. 2 seed, she’s playing on the stadium court, it’s difficult conditions. Not only is it cold and heavy, but it’s also one o’clock in the morning there. It’s just so unfortunate she’s gone out in these circumstances but we all wish her well and if she isn’t feeling her best, she makes a swift recovery."

Jabeur explained after the match that she had difficulty breathing during the match which didn't make things easier. She generally didn't play a very good match as the conditions heavily favoured Vondrousova who enjoys a slower pace of place. Schett mentioned that in her reaction:

“You can see the disappointment on Ons Jabeur’s face as well. We know she had a bit of a knee problem when I spoke to her. She said she’s taking so many pills, but then also her game today didn’t work out at all. The conditions were very slow."