Petra Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion, has announced her pregnancy and will consequently miss the Australian Open.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova has made the joyous announcement that she is expecting her first child with her husband and long-time coach Jiri Vanek. This delightful news means that Kvitova will not be participating in this month’s Australian Open, the first major of the year, where she has previously achieved the remarkable feat of finishing as a runner-up.

The 33-year-old, who has had a stellar career as a professional tennis player, has not been partaking in the ongoing tune-up tournaments in Australia. Nevertheless, her name had initially featured in the entry list for the January 14-28 Melbourne Park major, indicating the potential for her participation. However, with the exciting prospect of motherhood ahead, Kvitova has understandably opted to prioritize this significant milestone in her personal life.

“On the first day of 2024 I wanted to wish you a happy new year and share the exciting news that Jiri and I will be welcoming a baby into our family this summer,” Kvitova said on social media platform X with pictures of the pair holding a sonogram and a onesie.

She added on Instagram that she would miss her annual trip to Australia.

“I’m looking forward to spending some time at home preparing for this exciting next chapter in our lives.” Kvitova added.

Kvitova was defeated by Naomi Osaka in the 2019 Australian Open final. Osaka had returned to the tour on Monday at the Brisbane International after being away for 15 months due to having her first child.

Fans around the world will undoubtedly join in celebrating this momentous occasion for Petra Kvitova and her family, while eagerly anticipating her return to the tennis court in the future. As she embarks on this new chapter in her life, Kvitova’s unwavering determination and resilience, which have been emblematic of her sporting career, are sure to accompany her in this extraordinary journey of motherhood. This news not only marks a milestone in Kvitova’s life but also adds a touch of warmth and joy to the global tennis community as it witnesses one of its esteemed athletes embracing this profound and joyous phase of life.