About
Kim Clijsters is a retired Belgian professional tennis player who achieved the world No. 1 ranking in both singles and doubles. She held the top singles ranking for 20 weeks and the top doubles ranking for 4 weeks, simultaneously holding both in 2003. Clijsters won 41 singles titles and 11 doubles titles on the WTA Tour, marking a successful career. Her Grand Slam achievements include four singles majors and two doubles majors, along with three singles titles at the Tour Finals.
Career Timeline
First Grand Slam Final
Clijsters reached her first Grand Slam final at the French Open, losing to Jennifer Capriati. Her powerful game and athleticism established her as one of the WTA's rising stars and future major contenders.
World No. 1 Ranking Achieved
Clijsters reached world No. 1 in both singles and doubles simultaneously, showcasing her exceptional all-around tennis ability. Her dominance on tour and marketability made her one of the sport's biggest stars and highest earners.
US Open Championship Breakthrough
Clijsters won her first Grand Slam singles title at the US Open, finally breaking through after several final losses. The victory solidified her status as an elite champion and one of the most beloved players on tour.
First Retirement for Family
At just 23 and ranked in the top 5, Clijsters retired to focus on starting a family with her husband. The decision shocked the tennis world but demonstrated her priorities beyond the sport.
Remarkable Comeback US Open Win
Just three tournaments into her comeback and as an unseeded mother, Clijsters won the US Open in one of tennis's greatest Cinderella stories. The triumph captured global attention and proved her exceptional talent remained intact.
Australian Open Victory Peak
Clijsters won the Australian Open and returned to world No. 1, cementing her comeback as one of sport's greatest. She won multiple majors post-motherhood, earning admiration for balancing family and elite competition.
Second Retirement from Tennis
Clijsters retired for a second time after the US Open, having achieved all her goals and wanting to focus on family. Her decision was respected, and she left the sport as one of the most accomplished and popular players of her generation.
Brief Comeback Attempt Ends
Clijsters attempted a second comeback but struggled with injuries and the level of modern tennis at age 36. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated her return, and she quietly ended the comeback attempt after limited matches.
Hall of Fame Legend Status
Clijsters remains well-known in tennis circles and her native Belgium, working in tennis commentary and development. While not in the mainstream spotlight, she is respected as one of the sport's greatest players and a pioneer for mothers in professional tennis.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026