WIMBLEDON, England – Belinda Bencic couldn’t hide her joy.
From the second she clinched match point in a gripping tiebreak to secure her 7-6 (3), 7-6 (2) triumph over No. 7 seed Mirra Andreeva, her radiant smile lit up Centre Court. It remained steadfast as she exited the court after her post-match interview.
"It’s incredible; it’s surreal, truly a dream realized," Bencic expressed enthusiastically in front of a captivated audience. "I tried to keep my composure during match point, but I’m utterly speechless. It’s just my second Grand Slam semifinal and my first at Wimbledon—what an experience!"
Her journey to this point has been extraordinary. The unseeded Bencic, a former world No. 4 and gold medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, announced her pregnancy in November 2023, planning for an indefinite hiatus. Following the birth of her daughter Bella in April 2024, she reentered the competitive scene toward the end of the year, initially participating in lower-tier ITF events before returning to the WTA Tour in January.
Bencic not only surpassed expectations early on—reaching the fourth round at the Australian Open and claiming the title at the Abu Dhabi Open—but faced hurdles too. She had to withdraw from the French Open due to injury and played only one match on grass prior to Wimbledon, leading to some uncertainty as the tournament commenced.
However, Bencic has showcased an unstoppable spirit throughout five matches so far. Now, she is set for her second semifinal of her career, and first since 2019, taking on the formidable five-time major champion, Iga Swiatek. Having started her comeback ranked outside the top 1000, Bencic is poised to reenter the top 20 in the upcoming rankings.
"I’m incredibly proud," Bencic remarked. "Throughout my career, I wasn’t always vocal about my feelings, but since Bella’s arrival, I remind myself daily. My family and team have been extraordinary; we work hard together on this comeback and savor our time on tour with Bella traveling with us."
The shift in player dynamics on the WTA Tour is noticeable, particularly after the returns of mothers like Victoria Azarenka and Serena Williams. This year, the WTA introduced new maternity leave benefits, with nine mothers participating at Wimbledon.
Yet the physical demands of pregnancy and the relentless travel schedule present unique challenges. Players often require additional support for childcare during long tournament days, which can be costly and emotionally taxing.
Bencic is acutely aware of the hurdles many players face following motherhood, while also being inspired by fellow players who have successfully returned to the sport. She started her comeback with a focus on regaining her pre-pregnancy form.
Having her husband, Martin Hromkovic, as her fitness coach and travel companion has eased the transition, allowing their family to remain together on the tour. Her mother has also stepped in to assist during parts of the season.
Preparing for tournaments now involves nuanced logistical challenges. Juggling baby essentials with her own needs has Bencic constantly checking weather forecasts to ensure she brings appropriate supplies for Bella. The 2025 season demanded careful planning, especially with their stay in Australia.
While the demands of parenthood are ever-present, Bencic has maintained focus. Shortly after her early-season success, she celebrated a title at Abu Dhabi, delighting the crowd by bringing Bella on court for photos post-match.
"Bella is a part of this journey, and those moments are incredibly special," Bencic shared. "It felt so natural to include her; our achievements are collective."
Bencic’s resilience shined through even when her tournament experience wasn’t entirely smooth. She faced setbacks like an arm injury that hindered her French Open participation and a first-round loss at the Bad Homburg Open. Yet, she bounced back powerfully, defeating Alexandrova, the No. 18 seed, in the quarterfinals at Wimbledon.
Despite being the underdog against Andreeva, the talented 18-year-old seeking her own semifinal breakthrough, Bencic showed composure, drawing on her experience to outmaneuver her opponent when it mattered most.
"She played incredibly well today," Andreeva said, reflecting on her performance.
Now, just a day after her monumental victory, Bencic is on the brink of her first major final. Despite facing Swiatek, whom she has only beaten once in five encounters, she is confident in her ability to compete.
Regardless of the match outcome, Bencic emphasizes that her tennis results do not dictate her happiness anymore.
"My perspective has shifted dramatically. Previously, tennis was everything for me. I’d obsess over matches and performance," she confided. "Now, my private and professional lives are well-separated, contributing to a healthier mindset."
As she prepares to step onto the prestigious grass courts of Wimbledon, Bencic is not just playing for victory; she’s honoring her journey and the joy of being back in the sport she loves.