Sounds: Muchová Sets Sights on Top-Level Return

This week’s WTA 500 Eastbourne event marks Muchová’s return to action, with the Czech former world No. 8 making a successful comeback after a 10-month absence from competition. Muchová was sidelined since last year’s US Open due to injury, having made her maiden appearance at the WTA Finals but being unable to compete because of her health issues. In an interview with the WTA this week, Muchová shared her recovery journey and aspirations for her comeback.

Photo of Muchová

“I know it’s been a long time since I was last on court, and I’m aware that I can’t expect my best tennis right away,” Muchová said. “I can’t demand the level I had last year, but I believe that with a few matches and some time, I’ll gradually get back into it. So far, in my training sessions with other players, I haven’t been doing too badly; I’ve been able to keep up and not miss every ball.”

When discussing her performance expectations, Muchová expressed her desire to rejoin the elite: “I hope to play top-level tennis again and make some noise in the top tier.”

Following a series of impressive results, including a French Open final and a US Open semifinal, Muchová climbed as high as No. 8 in the world rankings in the 2023 season. However, her progress was halted by the injury that led to surgery on her right wrist in February.

“At first, of course, I was a bit – let’s say more than a bit – frustrated. After such a successful season, I felt great on court and naturally wanted to keep that momentum going, but I had to stop,” she shared.

“Knowing I needed surgery, I understood there would be a long road ahead, so I tried to accept it and focus on my recovery, doing what I could. I think I handled that part well,” Muchová recalled.

“After the cast came off, my hand was still immobile,” she recounted. “It was crazy; I wondered if I’d ever hold a racquet again, or even use a fork to eat. My wrist was very, very fragile.”

Muchová revealed that her medical team initially projected an August return, but her dedication during rehabilitation exceeded expectations, allowing her doctor to clear her for an earlier comeback, which now includes Wimbledon and the Olympics.

So far, Muchová’s comeback has been promising. She received a retirement in her first-round match against Azarenka while leading 3-1, and then defeated Linette in straight sets to advance to the quarterfinals in her first tournament back.

“Cliché as it sounds, I just want to compete and feel the energy of being on court and playing in front of the crowd,” Muchová stated. “I’m a very competitive person, so I’m excited to experience that passion again.”

(Translated by Wang Fei)