Clijsters acknowledges 'crazy' support
Kim Clijsters: "I don't have words for how I'm feeling."
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By Matt Fortune. |  |
Monday, 14, Sep 2009 07:55
By James Christie
US Open winner Kim Clijsters acknowledged the "crazy" level of support that has helped her become the first woman since 1980 to win a grand slam as a mother.
Australian Evonne Goolagang Cawley was the lady who last achieved the feat in the Wimbledon final 29 years ago.
Before her, compatriot Margaret Court - probably the greatest female player in the history of the game - became the fourth lady to win a grand slam while juggling childcare responsibilities (she also lost a GS final while pregnant with her first child).
There is also an Australian connection to Clijsters' victory - she used to be engaged to Aussie player Lleyton Hewitt.
And Clijsters realises the popularity of her victory, saying: "Even from the first round, how warmly everyone welcomed and embraced me. It helped me keep fighting and stay focused."
When working out a game plan to beat Caroline Wozniacki she didn't neglect her daughter.
"We tried to plan Jada's nap time a little bit later so she could be there. It's the greatest joy in the world," she said.
"I can't wait to spend the next few weeks with her."
Her opponent Wozniacki, who was denied victory in her first grand slam final, said: "She's such a great girl and I'm so excited that she came back."
The Dane's words reflect the deep affection the players have for the Belgian.