Ons Jabeur’s resilience was on full display as the Tunisian tennis star battled through a terrifying asthma episode to defeat Colombia’s Camila Osorio and advance to the third round of the 2025 Australian Open. The three-time Grand Slam runner-up faced a challenging 7-5, 6-3 victory under physically taxing conditions that left her emotional and reflective.
Asthma Strikes Early
Just three games into the opening set, Jabeur appeared visibly distressed, clutching her chest and struggling to breathe. She slumped into her chair, tears streaming, before leaving the court for medical attention. Diagnosed with asthma during her youth, Jabeur revealed that her prolonged absence from competitive tennis in 2024 had exacerbated her condition.
“When I was younger, I was diagnosed with asthma, so having taken off a lot didn’t help. I think it provoked it even more,” Jabeur explained post-match.
A Gritty Comeback
Despite her struggles, Jabeur returned to the court determined to fight. Employing a more aggressive, shorter-rally strategy to conserve energy, she overcame Osorio’s relentless baseline play to claim the first set. The second set was equally challenging, but Jabeur’s shot-making brilliance carried her through.
“It was very tough to play,” she admitted. “Luckily, I was playing really good. That really helped pump me up. If I had lost the first set, it would have been very difficult to continue.”
Jabeur’s ability to adapt her game to the situation, coupled with her unwavering determination, allowed her to triumph, even as she struggled to breathe freely.
A Comeback Season
Currently ranked world No. 39, Jabeur is gradually working her way back to top form following a 2024 season marred by injuries to her shoulder and knee. These setbacks forced her to miss high-profile tournaments like the U.S. Open and the Paris Olympics. Her recent return to the court is a testament to her perseverance, though she acknowledged she is still a work in progress.
“I don’t want to be greedy just after coming back from an injury. Sometimes I get angry because I feel like I’m getting back there, but every time something happens.”
Aiming for Glory
Jabeur, twice a Wimbledon runner-up, continues her quest to make history as the first African and Arab woman to win a Grand Slam title. Her next challenge comes in the form of Emma Navarro, the American eighth seed, in what promises to be a tough third-round battle.
“I don’t want to behave like this on the court,” Jabeur said, reflecting on her emotional moment during the match. “But I will keep fighting, and I believe in my game.”
What’s Next for Jabeur?
With her health and fitness improving incrementally, Jabeur’s dream of lifting a major trophy remains alive. However, facing a confident Navarro, Jabeur will need to summon all her skill, strategy, and mental fortitude to continue her journey in Melbourne.
