Ons Jabeur’s distinctive approach to playing tennis attracted widespread attention when she burst onto the women’s tour.
Despite its high-risk nature, the Tunisian player is steadfast in her commitment to showcasing flair and creativity as she strives to secure her first Grand Slam title at the French Open.
Jabeur’s unconventional and occasionally unpredictable shots have propelled her to three Grand Slam finals. However, she has fallen short on each occasion, still eagerly awaiting the fulfillment of her dream to become the first Arab and African woman to triumph in a major tournament.
As a fan favourite, the 29-year-old’s vibrant personality shines through on the court. In a light-hearted manner, Jabeur remarked that she would dismiss her team if they ever suggested she alter her playing style.
“I possess a distinct style of play. As a woman, I value my freedom and the ability to express myself on the court,” Jabeur shared with reporters.
“I tend to dislike it when others try to confine me or hinder me from doing what I believe is right. I consider myself a creative individual, relying on my intuition during matches. Instead of telling me not to attempt a drop shot, teach me how to execute it effectively.”
“I always make it a point to remind my team to let me have the freedom to be myself on the court. It’s incredibly important to me because that’s when I perform at my best, when I express myself and become more vocal.”
Known as the “Minister of Happiness” among her peers, Jabeur sometimes finds it challenging to live up to that title when things aren’t going well on the court. However, she acknowledges that life is never perfect.
“I never thought that being the ‘Minister of Happiness’ meant I had to be happy all the time, which is unrealistic. I believe it sends the wrong message as well,” stated Jabeur, who will be facing Clara Tauson in the fourth round.
“What I want people to understand is that I also experience anger and sadness. I accept these emotions, and it’s perfectly okay to feel that way.
“I cry frequently. I can be happy, but what I want to convey is that sometimes a simple smile can brighten someone’s day.”
The top seed, Iga Swiatek, kicks off Sunday’s matches as she goes up against Anastasia Potapova from Russia. Swiatek aims to extend her winning streak on clay to 16 matches.
In the evening session, second seed Jannik Sinner will take on Corentin Moutet, France’s last hope in the men’s draw. Moutet has gained recognition for his frequent use of underarm serves.
“When I witness the adversary positioned distant from the baseline, occasionally it becomes a viable choice,” he declared subsequent to securing nine points through the subaqueous serve in opposition to Sebastian Ofner during the third round. “It is a stroke that we can employ. Consequently, if I am able to employ it and attain a few points, I shall make use of it.” Meanwhile, Greek ninth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas competes against the inspired Italian Matteo Arnaldi, who caused a sensation by eliminating the sixth seed Andrey Rublev in a clean sweep.
