Chris Evert and Boris Becker thrilled with Simona Halep’s return to the WTA Tour at the WTA 125 Hong Kong Open, which will begin on Monday, September 30. The former World No. 1 has only played two matches since her doping ban was lifted, with injuries hindering her full return.
The two-time Grand Slam champion was suspended for four years after testing positive for Roxadustat at the 2022 US Open, a substance she accidentally consumed through a supplement. In March of this year, her sanction was reduced, allowing her to return immediately to the courts, making her comeback at the Miami Open.
Halep to compete in Hong Kong after long injury
The Romanian surprised with a high level of tennis against a tough opponent like Paula Badosa, who had also just returned after a long injury. Halep won the first set but couldn’t maintain the level, losing 6-1, 4-6, 3-6. However, she left a good impression for the rest of the season, showing competitiveness despite the long absence from the competition.
Since her suspension, Halep dropped from World No. 6 to having no ranking, forcing her to request wildcards as she worked her way back. Following another injury, she only played her second tournament at the WTA 125 Clarins in Paris in May but had to retire in the second set (7-5, 2-3) against McCartney Kessler.
Cleared to play but dealing with injuries, Halep announced a few weeks ago that she planned to return at the end of October at the WTA 250 Hong Kong Open. However, plans changed as she received a wildcard for a WTA 125 event, also in Hong Kong, starting September 30. Halep will face Arina Rodionova in the first round.
The 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert celebrated the Romanian’s return on social media. Evert publicly supported Halep during her doping ban, as Halep always claimed innocence. After Halep’s announcement of her return, Evert posted a message on her X account: “❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏 so happy to see you back, Simona!!!” she wrote.
Six-time Grand Slam champion Boris Becker echoed Evert’s sentiments, sharing her message and adding, “Absolutely Simona.”
❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏so happy to see you back, Simona!!! https://t.co/zOtKq9r5JL
— Chris Evert (@ChrissieEvert) September 29, 2024
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