The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix is Angelique Kerber’s first competition in Germany since the birth of her daughter Liana. Before that, she will compete for Porsche Team Germany in the Billie Jean King Cup in Brazil. In an interview, the Brand Ambassador discusses her comeback, the challenges of being a mother on the tennis tour, and the excitement surrounding her return to the Porsche Arena.
Angelique, how much are you looking forward to the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix?
Angelique, How much are you looking forward to the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix?
Angelique Kerber: “The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix has a unique character. It’s something I really missed last year. I have many fond memories of the tournament and am excited to play my best tennis in front of the incredible crowd in the Porsche Arena.”
How significant is this tournament to you? What have you missed the most?
Angelique Kerber: “The week in Stuttgart has traditionally been one of the most significant of the year. Above all, I missed the sense of standing out on the court in the packed Porsche Arena, soaking up the incredible atmosphere. I watched the competition on TV, but it was clearly no alternative. The fact that I enjoy the event so much is due in large part to my long-time partner Porsche, who has always stayed by me no matter what happens on the court. It’s an excellent partnership.”
This year will see nine Top 10 players compete, and you are one of nine Grand Slam winners. What do the footballers enjoy about Stuttgart?
Angelique Kerber: “It’s not for nothing that the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix has consistently been picked as their favourite competition. They simply feel at home in Stuttgart and find settings that allow them to perform at their peak. It’s the most essential thing to them. The organisation is great. At the start of the clay court season, the tournament also provides an excellent opportunity to prepare for the French Open. A very unique inducement is the Porsche that the winner will receive. The sports automobile draws many players to Stuttgart.”
You will compete for Porsche Team Germany in the Billie Jean King Cup in Brazil the same weekend the competition begins. How essential is it to you?
Angelique Kerber: “I’m looking forward to returning to the team and representing Germany. For me, it is a great honor. We face a difficult battle against Brazil. But I’m hoping that my experience on and off the court can benefit the team.
The match will take place in São Paulo, a 12-hour trip away. Given the stress of flying, did you hesitate to play?
Angelique Kerber: “As far as travel stress goes, Brazil is not a lucky draw for us. But we have to look at things optimistically and try to make the best of it. The true challenge is the 12-hour return travel and then returning to court one or two days later at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix. It will be challenging due to the time difference and jetlag. “Who knows, perhaps I’ll have one or two good clay matches in São Paulo and thus come to Stuttgart on a high.”
You returned to the big stage of tennis in Australia at the beginning of the year. How satisfied are you with your comeback so far?
Angelique Kerber: “Before taking the step, I understood I needed to be patient and that everything would take time after such a long absence. But I’m extremely pleased. It’s improving all the time.
You won the United Cup with Team Germany early in the season before losing a few games. Did you feel any particular pressure at the time?
Angelique Kerber: “No.” I don’t put pressure on myself anymore. I adore tennis. My heart is in this game. I enjoy standing on the court and experiencing the emotions of the crowd. It gives me strength, which is why I’m returning. But what others anticipate from me no longer interests me. Those times are over. I knew I needed some matches. In Indian Wells, I realized that everything was going in the right direction. It boosted my confidence and made me excited about the future.
How tough is it to give oneself the required time and be patient?
Angelique Kerber: “Patience is not one of my skills. But I knew it would take some time before I started playing well and returned to my previous level. I still enjoy tennis, but being a mother is my number one priority, and it brings me great joy. Tennis is no longer the most important thing in my life. It makes it easier to remain patient.”
What is it like to go around the world with little Liana?
Angelique Kerber: “I’m really grateful that she copes so well with the flights, time changes, and weather. She just gets on with everything. As a mother on tour, you must be very flexible and spontaneous because you cannot plan everything weeks in advance. You can only take things day by day and have to constantly rearrange everything.”
You advanced to the round of 16 at Indian Wells thanks to victories over top players. Why did everything suddenly improve?
Angelique Kerber: “Everything just clicked.” As I have stated, returning from such a long layoff requires time and patience. I knew that if I worked hard enough, success would eventually come. That moment has arrived in Indian Wells. I realized that I’m on the correct track and that I can defeat elite players again. “It has given me a lot of confidence.”
The Porsche magazine “Christophorus” paid a visit to your tennis academy in Poland, where many kids practice. How important is the academy to you?
Angelique Kerber: “In my academy, I give children the opportunity to play tennis.” It’s always moving to watch them. It reminds me of my professional beginnings. For me, it’s critical that I give back to my sport through the academy and share the knowledge I’ve gathered throughout my career with the kids. When I practice there, I take the time to watch them and offer them one or two pieces of advise. “I really enjoy it.”
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