As Ons Jabeur steps away from the professional tennis circuit, she’s not quite putting down her racket for good, but taking a crucial pause to focus on her mental and physical health. The three-time Grand Slam finalist has been a trailblazer in the sport, pushing herself through grueling matches, injuries, and personal challenges. Now, she’s prioritizing her well-being—a move that resonates profoundly in the high-octane world of professional sports.
Jabeur’s journey is remarkable not only because of her skill and achievements on the court but also due to her remarkable resilience off it. Born in Tunisia in 1994, Jabeur broke barriers as the first Arab woman to win a WTA title and the first to reach the quarterfinals and beyond at Grand Slam events. Her rise has inspired countless fans across the Arab world and beyond, becoming an emblem of perseverance and cultural pride.
However, her success has not come without struggle. Jabeur has openly shared her battle with asthma, a condition that complicates her ability to breathe freely during intense matches. This vulnerability adds depth to her narrative—she’s a champion not just because of her technical prowess but because she confronts real, personal obstacles that many would find debilitating.
Beyond the physical challenges, the mental toll of competing at such a high level has also weighed on her. The constant pressure, media scrutiny, and the relentless grind of the tennis calendar can wear down even the most seasoned players. In recent years, there has been growing awareness of mental health issues among athletes, with prominent figures like Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams speaking out about their own struggles. Jabeur stepping back for her own mental wellness follows this important trend, reminding us all that champions are human, with limits that must be respected.
This break comes at a pivotal moment in Jabeur’s life. She has voiced her desire to start a family, signaling a shift in her personal priorities. For an athlete who has often been in the spotlight, this choice reflects a conscious move to reclaim control over her own story and personal happiness. It’s a departure from the narrative of relentless hustle and perfectionism that often dominates elite sports.
Ons Jabeur is affectionately known as the “minister of happiness” within the tennis community—a nickname that reflects not just her infectious smile and positive energy but her ability to inspire joy in others. This personality trait underscores why her decision to focus on well-being is so meaningful. It’s a powerful example of self-care and mental health awareness in a world that frequently equates value with productivity and achievement.
Her choice to step away temporarily also contributes to a broader conversation about the sustainability of athletic careers. Historically, tennis legends such as Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, and more recently, Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin, have all faced moments where prioritizing mental or physical health meant stepping back from competition. Jabeur’s break fits within this lineage of athletes who have reminded the sports world to listen to their bodies and minds.
What’s particularly inspiring is how Jabeur’s break is not an end but a new beginning—an opportunity to rediscover joy both within and outside of tennis. The sport has been her lifelong passion since childhood, growing up in Tunisia and training in France, yet this pause opens the door to new interests and pursuits. It’s a reminder that life beyond sports can be just as fulfilling and that identity extends beyond professional success.
At a time when we often receive messages pushing us harder—to work longer, achieve more, and never slow down—Jabeur’s story offers a counterweight. It encourages a much-needed cultural shift toward valuing rest, emotional health, and authentic living.
While she may be off the court for now, Jabeur’s influence remains. Her courage to be vulnerable and prioritize herself is as inspiring as her powerful forehands and crafty tactical play. She’s showing us all a new kind of champion—one who wins not only through titles but through self-respect and balance.
As the tennis world waits eagerly for her return, the broader lesson from Ons Jabeur is clear: sometimes stepping back is the boldest move you can make, enabling you to leap forward with renewed strength, happiness, and purpose.