Veronika Kudermetova’s absence from the WTA Tour will extend into a new chapter of her life, with the former Top 10 singles and doubles player announcing that she and her husband, Sergei Demekhine, are expecting their first child.
Kudermetova shares pregnancy news
The 29-year-old Russian revealed the news on Tuesday through a maternity photo shoot with Demekhine, accompanied by the message: “Waiting for a miracle.”
Kudermetova has not played during the 2026 season. Her break followed a standout 2025 doubles campaign alongside Elise Mertens, with the pair lifting the Wimbledon title and finishing the year by winning the WTA Finals.
A health-first decision
- Kudermetova underwent surgery on New Year’s Eve and announced in January that she would be away from competition for an extended period.
- At the time, she chose not to disclose the nature of the operation, describing it as her “personal little secret.”
- She explained that recurring injuries, changes in her game and the search for renewed motivation had made the previous two or three years difficult.
- Kudermetova said she had neglected her wellbeing while chasing victories and results, and decided that recovery had to take precedence over tennis.
- Her intention was to heal, restore her energy and eventually return to the court in stronger condition.
“Many of you know that the last two or three years have been very difficult for me: either injuries, then searching for something new in my tennis, then finding motivations for myself,” Kudermetova wrote when outlining her decision to pause.
She added that it was hard to step back while her career was moving forward, but said the choice had become one between competing and taking care of her body.
Tour support for the former Wimbledon doubles champion
Kudermetova’s announcement drew warm responses from players across the tour, including world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka. Belinda Bencic and Caroline Garcia, both mothers, were also among those to congratulate her.
A return date has not been announced. For now, Kudermetova’s place in the draw remains on hold as she prepares for her first child after a career that has brought success in both singles and doubles.
