Anna Kournikova, once one of the most recognizable faces in tennis, has resurfaced in the public eye for the first time in two years, but under worrying circumstances. The 43-year-old former tennis star, known for her meteoric rise in the late 1990s and high-profile career alongside Martina Hingis, was recently photographed in a wheelchair, raising questions about her health.
Fans from both the sports and entertainment worlds are now left wondering: What happened to Anna Kournikova?
Kournikova Seen in Wheelchair with a Walking Boot
The 1997 Wimbledon semifinalist was spotted in public with her children, being wheeled around by friends and family. Notably, she was wearing a protective walking boot on her right foot and a bandage on her right little finger, though it’s unclear whether the injuries are related or how serious they may be.
This sudden appearance has shocked fans, as Kournikova has remained out of the spotlight for the past few years, choosing to focus on her private life with longtime partner Enrique Iglesias and their three children.
A Career Plagued by Injuries
Injuries were the defining factor that cut Kournikova’s career short, forcing her to retire in 2003 at just 22 years old. In previous interviews, she reflected on the years of physical setbacks that ultimately pushed her out of the sport:
- 1997 – Stress fracture, out for three months
- 1998 – Torn thumb ligament, out for three months
- 1999 – Another stress fracture, sidelined for three months
- 2001 – Missed nearly the entire season due to injuries
- 2003 – Chronic back injuries made it impossible to continue
In an emotional interview with PEOPLE in 2011, she revealed the extent of her debilitating back pain:
“My back really forced me to stop. It got so bad, I couldn’t tie my shoes, literally. I would be in excruciating pain.”
Given her history of chronic injuries, some fear that her recent health struggles may be a continuation of the same issues that ended her career decades ago.
From Tennis Star to Private Family Life
Despite being one of the most talked-about athletes of her time, Kournikova stepped away from the public eye after retiring, becoming a mother and longtime partner to global pop sensation Enrique Iglesias.
Though she and Iglesias have been together for over 20 years, they never married, a decision the singer has always been firm about. In a 2019 interview with The Sun, Kournikova shared her thoughts on their relationship and family life:
“Marriage isn’t important to me. I believe in being open, trusting each other, and respecting each other completely. We’ve been together for years. He’s the male version of me, and I’m the female version of him.”
She also expressed how motherhood was always her priority, whether through biological children or adoption:
“I absolutely wanted to have children, whether I had my own or adopted. I love taking care of people.”
What’s Next for Kournikova?
With no official statement about her condition, speculation is growing regarding her recent health struggles. Whether this is a temporary setback or a sign of deeper medical issues, fans around the world are hoping to see one of tennis’ most famous figures bounce back once again.
For now, Kournikova remains a private figure, leaving many questions unanswered. But one thing is certain—the world is watching and hoping for her full recovery.
