This is what the 36-year-old had to say about…
...her feelings ahead of the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix:
“It’s great being back playing at my home tournament. I’ve been feeling good up to now and it’s nice to be back in Stuttgart.”
...the past months on tour after giving birth:
“Everything has gone as expected since my return. There’s been no big surprises. I’ve needed time to get back to form and despite some annoying defeats, I’ve also played some good matches and won against Top 10 players. My team has gained an additional member which means that we have to schedule our time more flexibly. Even when I need a little bit more time to get back to my previous level, I’m enjoying every moment and am pleased that I’ve already proved I’m on a par with the rest. It's great being back on tour.”
...her health:
“At the Billie Jean King Cup in Brazil, I was a bit under the weather and the long flight made my cold worse. I can’t remember the last time I was so ill. I’m feeling better in the meantime, and am improving from day to day. I’m working on my recovery and getting fit again as soon as possible.”
...her new daily routines as a mother at tournaments:
“My daily routine has definitely changed. It is different to the one I had two years ago. I try to focus on the court, practice preferably in the morning and plan my day so that I have time off in the afternoon. It gives me the chance to spend time with my daughter, like when going for a walk.”
...the opportunity to play in front of German fans again:
“It means a lot to me to be able to play again on home soil. The tournaments in Germany have always been a highlight for me. This year, I’m particularly looking forward to playing lots of tournaments in my home country. It’s additional motivation.”
...her schedule:
“I’ve adjusted my plans a little. I’m not playing next week in Madrid, only in Rome and Paris as I need the time to prepare on clay. Grass is my favourite surface, so the focus will be on playing as much as possible and getting match practice before it’s off to Wimbledon.”
