"Maybe it's time that I make trouble for them": Jabeur looks to regain form and join Swiatek, Sabalenka and Rybakina in challenging at top of WTA Tennis

Ons Jabeur commented that she hopes to rival Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina during this season.

Jabeur stood out in 2021 by entering the top-10, and in 2022, she advanced even further, becoming world No. 2 and a finalist in two Grand Slams. The Tunisian player has not maintained her results in the first months of competition, although she still remains in the top part of the rankings as world No. 5.

The upcoming weeks will be crucial for Jabeur, as she is one of the players who defends the most points in the clay court tournaments in Europe. Last year, she reached the final of the Charleston Open and Rome, as well as winning the Madrid Open. Therefore, if she fails to defend those points, she faces the possibility of dropping further in the rankings. Swiatek, Sabalenka, and Rybakina are currently the most in-form players on the tour and seem to be a few steps ahead of the rest of the players. Regarding this, Jabeur commented on her desire to match their level

“Elena won Wimbledon last year. Aryna struggled a bit last year but she regained her confidence.”

“Iga is Iga. I think they have a very powerful game so that’s why it’s great to see them doing amazing. I think it’s great motivation for all of us. I know what great players they are and I think it’s fun to challenge them a bit.

I have a completely different game from them so maybe it’s time that I make trouble for them a little bit."

The African player has stood out for a flashy style of play, with creative shots, especially taking advantage of her slice and excellent dropshot that characterizes her. Unfortunately, she was unable to play in the Middle Eastern tournaments due to an injury.

“Brain and body feel good. I feel like I’m ready here for Miami. The body is getting there, and I’m really excited. The tennis is there, I just need to gain back some of the things I was doing before. I also feel my tennis is getting better, just with the technical things that I’ve been working on with my coach,” said the Tunisian.

I feel like this season is just starting now. This is my January,” added Jabeur.