Kerber not putting herself under pressure ahead of maternity comeback

German tennis star Angelique Kerber is looking forward to her comeback after maternity leave but does not have any specific expectations.

“I’m not putting any pressure on myself, I’m just letting it come to me,” the former world number one told dpa ahead of the mixed-teams United Cup in Australia, which begins on Friday and effectively starts the new tennis season.

“Normally I knew where I stood after one training session – plus or minus. Now I’m curious to see what it will be like.”

After an 18-month break, during which she gave birth to her daughter Liana, Kerber will compete for Germany in group D in Sydney with Alexander Zverev. A mixed doubles match is also possible with the Olympic champion.

According to the schedule, Kerber will face Italy’s Jasmine Paolini this Saturday, while her opponent on New Year’s Day will be France’s Caroline Garcia.

“Competing as a team for Germany, together with Sascha Zverev, is of course a completely different feeling to competing in a regular tournament,” said the 35-year-old, who is hoping for a “very fun time.”

“It’s also always a great honour for both of us to play for Germany.”

Looking ahead to the first grand slam of the season in Melbourne from 14 January, the Kiel native added: “Every match before the Australian Open will help me find my rhythm.”

Kerber arrived in Sydney with her daughter on Wednesday.