In-form Bencic back in top 10 for first time since having babySYDNEY, Jan 12, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Belinda Bencic powered back into the top 10 Monday for the first time since having a baby, with the in-form Swiss brimming with confidence ahead of the Australian Open. The 28-year-old won all five singles matches at the season-opening United Cup in Perth and Sydney, including victories over world number two Iga Swiatek and seventh-ranked Jasmine Paolini. She finished 9-1 for the tournament, with her only defeat coming in the final mixed-doubles decider against Poland on Sunday. Bencic was ranked 421 at the start of the 2025 season, but making the last 16 at the Australian Open a year ago convinced her she could return to the upper echelons of tennis. "I'm always serious about the Australian Open," said the 2021 Tokyo Olympic gold medallist, who reached a career-high number four in February 2020.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 12, 2026 04:34 UTC