On Wednesday April 17 in Stuttgart, Ons Jabeur ended her five-match losing streak. She qualified for the last 8 after beating Russia's Ekaterina Aleksandrova in three sets (2-6, 6-3, 7-6). After this fine victory, Jabeur spoke at length about her poor performances.
"I'm very happy, thanks to the public, especially the Tunisians who are always there to support me (smile)", she declared on court.
It's been a difficult period for me. As far as confidence is concerned, I'm trying to rebuild it. I thought several times about withdrawing from this tournament because I couldn't bear another defeat.I didn't expect an injury to affect my mind so much. The knee was affecting me and I didn't realize it. I kept going and tried to play matches even though I knew I wasn't ready, and that didn't help, losing to pretty much anyone on the circuit. I feel it's my duty to be honest, for the next generation watching, not to think that everything is perfect on the court. No, there are difficult moments, ups and downs, but the most important thing is to give everything on the court. I have to say that playing on clay helps my knee a lot. I can move around a lot better. So I think it's just a question of matches, training and patience, because I feel like that's the key for me right now."
Seeded n°7, the Tunisian will be looking to confirm her position against another tough player, Italy's Jasmin Paolini.
