For Belgian comeback star Kim Clijsters, a visit to the Oncology ward at Brisbane’s Royal Children’s Hospital was more than just a chance to visit with some young fans, but also a chance to take stock of a life that has gained new perspective since her return to tennis in August 2009.
“I admire them so much, it makes tennis [look easy], it puts everything in perspective,” says Clijsters shortly after the visit.
“Having a daughter myself I think it makes you feel so much more connected to their situation. It’s sad, but it’s also amazing to see how brave they are.”
Clijsters chatted with staff, parents and patients for close to an hour as she moved effortlessly from room to room, proving that her class is not just confined to the tennis court.
“I admire the nurses and the parents especially. It makes you think about your situation and how healthy and how lucky you are to be healthy.”
Clijsters will start the 2010 season fit and firing after producing a comeback storyline that was so good – almost improbable – even Rocky writer Sylvester Stallone would be envious.
But now, as the former world No.1 prepares to lace up her shoes for her first tournament of the year, the question is, can Clijsters keep the fairytale going?
It’s a few days before the opening main draw matches kick off and Clijsters is busy practising on Show Court 1 while fellow Belgian returnee Justine Henin is hitting up close by on Show Court 2.
Clijsters’ coach places an empty tennis ball canister in diagonally opposing corners of the court for a crosscourt forehand drill, with the aim being to hit the canister. Clijsters nails it first shot.
Just like Clijsters’ return to tennis, the drill goes exactly to plan for the 2009 US Open champion. And with the benefit of hindsight and the perspective that almost two years on the sidelines brings, Clijsters says that this time around she’s taking a different approach.
“[I’m doing] quite a few things [differently] yes, I think that’s why I’m calling this a second career and not a comeback,” she explains.
“I have the benefit of all that experience before but travelling with my husband, daughter and a brand new team is totally different. I’m loving that challenge.
“I think I have a different perspective now on the court after being away for so long and everything I experienced while I was away.”
And like fellow returnee Alicia Molik, Clijsters believes the time away from the court and the grind of the tour has made her a better player.
“A lot of things have changed in my life and I think you get to know yourself better and that also has an influence on the way you feel on the court,” she explains.
Another thing that has changed for Clijsters, albeit slightly, is her game. While she admits you won’t see her venturing to the net too often, she has spent time working on some of her weaknesses and strengthening the weapons in her already impressive armoury.
“A lot of girls can hit the ball hard and move well, but I think if you can mix it up a little bit more I think that’s something that can make a difference.
“I’ve worked hard physically, I had to obviously after the pregnancy and everything, but it’s paid off. I feel like I’ve had a good off season – I didn’t take a break because I had a long break before that. I’m just happy to be here.”