Ons Jabeur announces her intentions for Roland Garros. Despite a season plagued by injuries, the Tunisian says she is optimistic and intends to bounce back on the clay court in Paris.
Ons Jabeur had a big disappointment at the French Open last year. The Tunisian was one of the outsiders in this Grand Slam on clay, winning in Madrid and reaching the final in Rome. But unfortunately, she was swept aside in the first round by Poland's Magda Linette. This year, Jabeur expects a different scenario.
"It doesn't matter if I arrive with more or less confidence and matches in my legs. I haven't played many matches this year and maybe that's a good thing. I'm just going to try to go as far as I can," she says. Maybe I'm approaching this edition more lightly, but I like the pressure. I need it to stay focused and play good tennis. My priority is to arrive in top physical shape. That way, I will be able to play the rounds better. If I prepare well for two weeks, I will be able to get good results at Roland Garros.
"I think I'm one of the best on clay"
Ons Jabeur has never made it past the round of 16 in this tournament. And it is not won in advance for the best African player. Since her season has been plagued by injuries. The Tunisian was out of action for three weeks and was unable to defend her title in Madrid. Vice-champion in Rome, she was eliminated in the first round by former world No. 2 Paula Badosa. Despite these results, the world No. 7 is not giving up hope and plans to bounce back on the clay court in Paris. "I continue to move forward, not forgetting who I am and what I've been able to accomplish so far. The game is there, I just need to get my fitness back and I'll see what happens. I wasn't helped by the draw in Rome. I was hoping for a more favorable draw, but that's tennis. As for Paula, I think she belongs much higher up the ladder.
Despite a lackluster clay court season, Jabeur is one of the best players on the circuit on this surface. Her style of play is perfect for red clay. Last month, Iga Swiatek claimed to be the best player on clay alongside Ons Jabeur. And the Tunisian does not seem to contradict the two-time French Open champion. "I think I'm one of the best on clay. Iga is incredible and I am very flattered by this statement," she said. You have to be able to adapt to all surfaces. Complete players are rare. I love playing on clay. It's probably the only surface where I don't have to play one match after another to play well. I showed that in Charleston.
