Ons Jabeur says Cristiano Ronaldo he’s a “huge inspiration” for her after assembly the soccer nice through the WTA Finals in Riyadh.
The pair met after Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr drew 1-1 in opposition to Al-Hilal within the Saudi Professional League with Jabeur praising the Portuguese footballer.
Former girls’s world No 2 Jabeur has not been in motion for the reason that Canadian Open in August this yr as a consequence of a shoulder harm which noticed her sidelined for the 2024 season.
“I couldn’t consider, he’s actually an inspiration to me,” Jabeur said on Sky Sports Tennis.
“As an athlete, his dedication to the game is unbelievable. He was very focussed doing his routine, it was unbelievable and an honour to fulfill him.”
The Tunisian additionally met up with Al-Hilal’s Neymar and provided to arrange a doubles match alongside the legendary Brazilian footballer Ronaldo, who she believes might be higher at tennis than Cristiano.
“Neymar was totally different, I had talked to him, he loves tennis and he watches it,” Jabeur added.
“I asked him if he wants to play tennis but he said he’s not very good so maybe we’ll do a mixed double with the other Ronaldo, the Brazilian one.”
Jabeur feeling match and wholesome
The 30-year-old additionally mentioned he’s feeling match and wholesome forward of the 2025 season and believes her shoulder harm pressured her to offer her physique a break.
The three-time Grand Slam finalist withdrew from the Mubadala Citi DC Open in August as a consequence of shoulder ache.
“I’m feeling a lot better, I wanted that point, not only for my physique however for my thoughts and mentally it’s been powerful,” Jabeur said.
“4 years was actually intense to be within the prime 10 and to handle lots of finals and losses was emotionally exhausting for me however I’m glad I may name it off.
“As a tennis player it’s hard to call it off and rest. I’ve been sick so many times this year and my body was crying for help so I am glad I listened.
“I’m manifesting that [being healthy and feel good] for next year and I have a good feeling about 2025.
“I’m hoping it’s going to be nice and I’m going to take pleasure in each second.
“I’m definitely learning even though it was a bad year for me but I take all the positives from it and I am learning a lot and played in a beautiful tournament.”
What’s arising on Sky Sports activities Tennis?
- WTA Finals Riyadh – (November 2-9)
- Belgrade Open – ATP 250 (November 3-9)
- Moselle Open, Metz – ATP 250 (November 3-9)
- Nitto ATP Finals, Turin – (November 10-17)
