Kiki Bertens Announces Unfortunate News Regarding 2021 Participation

There are a lot of athletes who are eagerly anticipating the 2020 calendar to wrap up. Only then will we see the dawn of a new year, and most importantly witness the 2021 Australian Open! The expectations are huge, but for Kiki Bertens there is a massive letdown in that regard.

The World No.9 can no longer participate at Melbourne in 2021 owing to her health condition. Bertens had been experiencing pain in her Achilles for quite some time. This in turn pulled down her performance levels, and the right way to address it was through surgery. 

“The only possibility for me to play without pain again and get the maximum out of trainings and matches was to get a surgery,” Bertens wrote on Instagram. 

An Achilles injury can cause unbearable pain and getting past it is a gruesome process. Recovery takes a lot of time as the tendon requires proper procedures to heal. That said, Kiki Bertens is now forced to announce the disheartening news.

“I will miss the start of 2021, so unfortunately I won’t be competing in Australia,” Bertens informed. “I will try my best to come back stronger as fast as I can.”

Tons of wishes are pouring in for the Dutch tennis star as it is indeed an unfortunate time to suffer a major injury. Bertens has been participating at the Australian Open since 2012, and the upcoming year will put a screeching halt to her consistent record.

When can we see Kiki Bertens returning to the court? 

As mentioned above, Achilles injuries can prove to be a dreadful one. The pain is worse and the rehab process stretches for a few months in order to heal the cord completely. Tennis players take quick and explosive strides on the court, and in no case, it is assumed that the Achilles tendon will remain intact. 

A ruptured tendon can cause several problems, which might require surgery in most cases. Fortunately, Bertens quickly opted for a surgery which might limit the damage taken by the damaged cord. 

Since it is a major blow, Kiki Bertens would be required to wear a cast upon the surgery’s completion. This would need to be done for at least six weeks, depending upon the severity. Furthermore, putting weight on the operated foot will cause sharp and unbearable pain, but it will gradually recede in a few weeks’ time. 

If 2021 treats us kind and the schedule runs without any roadblocks, Kiki Bertens might attempt to make a return by March or April and look to play Roland Garros in full fitness. 

Also Read: WATCH: Kiki Bertens Left in Tears After Drama-Filled Match Against Sara Errani at French Open 2020