As tennis enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the start of the 5th tennis season, the Wimbledon Championships, the third Grand Slam tournament of the year, is set to begin on Monday. This year, two Slovenian players, Veronika Erjavec and Kaja Juvan, have qualified for this prestigious event. To gain insights about the tournament and his professional journey, we spoke with retired tennis player Aljaž Bedene, who once lived in the UK and considers Wimbledon his second home.
Aljaž shared that he has been spending considerable time on the tennis courts, helping young athletes while traveling less than he did during his professional career. Bedene, who last played competitively at the ATP tournament in Umag in July 2022, reflected on his decision to retire after facing psychological and physical challenges, including a COVID-19 infection that severely impacted his mental strength.
Looking back on his final competitive match, he noted the emerging talents of current tennis stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, whom he admires. He expressed concerns over the Slovenian men’s tennis scene, highlighting a significant gap in talent following his generation. Despite the lack of top-ranked players, Bedene emphasized the importance of training infrastructure and resources for young athletes.
Turning to women’s tennis, Bedene discussed the promising future of Slovenian players like Kaja Juvan, who has made a successful return to competition after a hiatus. The significance of Slovenia’s women’s team reaching the top four in the world rankings was also addressed, showcasing their potential to shine on the international stage.
Wimbledon, with its rich history and unique atmosphere, holds a special place in Bedene’s heart. As he prepares to watch the tournament, he expressed excitement about the thrilling matches ahead while also acknowledging the changes in the sport, such as slower play due to larger tennis balls.
In a remarkable return to form, Bedene recently participated in the WTT Ljubljana tournament, demonstrating his enduring passion for the sport. He remains active in various sports, keeping a close eye on Alpine skiing, biathlon, and Formula 1, among others.
With Wimbledon just days away, the stage is set for incredible tennis action, and Bedene’s continued involvement and insightful commentary provide a hopeful perspective for the future of Slovenian tennis. This tournament could mark a significant moment for emerging Slovenian talent and renew interest in the vibrant tennis scene within the country.