Ons Jabeur Battles Through Asthma Attack to Win Australian Open Match
In a heart-pounding second-round match at the Australian Open, Ons Jabeur showed immense grit and determination, overcoming a severe asthma attack to defeat Colombia’s Camila Osorio 7-5, 6-3. Despite nearly being forced to retire from the match due to breathing difficulties, the Tunisian tennis star’s comeback after receiving medical attention left fans and tennis enthusiasts in awe of her resilience.
The Asthma Attack and Break in Play
Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam finalist, was visibly struggling during the match, especially after gaining a 2-1 lead in the first set. The 28-year-old was seen coughing uncontrollably and clutching her chest, before slumping into her chair in distress. At this point, she broke down in tears and had to leave the court for medical assistance.
It was a tense moment as the world watched, with Jabeur’s health taking precedence over the match. After receiving treatment and using her inhaler, she bravely returned to the court to continue the match. Despite her discomfort, she managed to finish the game, displaying remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
Jabeur Opens Up About Her Asthma Struggles
In an interview after the match, Jabeur explained that she had been diagnosed with asthma at a young age, and the long period of inactivity had worsened her condition. “It was very, very tough to breathe,” she shared. “Having taken off a lot didn’t help. I think it provoked it even more.”
Jabeur’s return to tennis after struggling with shoulder and knee injuries had made her more susceptible to asthma flare-ups. She admitted that if she had lost the first set, it would have been “very difficult” for her to continue the match.
The physical demands of playing against an opponent like Osorio, known for her athleticism and long rallies, only added to Jabeur’s difficulties. “I had to kind of not play long rallies,” she said. “Not the best opponent when you are in this condition, but I apologised at the end of the match because I really don’t want to behave like this on the court.”
A Crucial Win for Jabeur’s Comeback
Despite her health struggles, Jabeur’s victory in this match marked a significant step in her comeback to tennis after a challenging 2024 season. Ranked 39th in the world, Jabeur acknowledged that she is still working on regaining her fitness and form. “I’m still not 100% at the level needed to get back into the top 10,” she admitted, but added, “But it’s getting there.”
Jabeur’s determination to push through adversity is commendable, and this victory proves that she has the mental fortitude to fight through difficult situations.
Looking Ahead: Third-Round Match Against Emma Navarro
Looking forward to her third-round match against American eighth seed Emma Navarro, Jabeur remains optimistic but cautious. The two players have met once before, with Jabeur emerging victorious 6-3, 6-2 in their 2022 clay-court encounter.
“I’m really just taking it one minute at a time,” Jabeur said. “I’m going to manage my asthma and be ready for the challenge ahead.” With her courage, determination, and resilience, Jabeur is determined to push through and continue her journey at the Australian Open.
For more updates on Ons Jabeur’s recovery, the latest in the Australian Open, and her upcoming matches, stay tuned to Channel 6 Network.
