Tunisian tennis star, Ons Jabeur, a former world number two and one of Africa’s most celebrated athletes, has announced that she is expecting her first child with her husband and fitness coach, Karim Kamoun. The couple shared the joyful news on social media, marking a new chapter in the life of the trailblazing tennis icon.

In a heartwarming video posted on Instagram, Jabeur displayed a baby onesie beside a miniature tennis racket, accompanied by Ed Sheeran and Beyoncé’s hit song “Perfect.” The caption read, “Took a little break to reset and recharge… Turns out, we’ve been planning the cutest comeback ever. The court will have to wait a little longer because soon we’ll be welcoming our tiniest teammate. Baby boy joining the team in April.”

The 30-year-old star has been open about taking a step back from competitive tennis earlier this year, saying she needed time to “reconnect with herself” after struggling with injuries and form. Her pregnancy announcement comes just months after she hinted at a possible hiatus from the WTA tour to focus on her well-being and personal life.

Jabeur’s pregnancy has been met with widespread excitement from fans, colleagues, and tennis bodies around the world. Many have praised her for embracing motherhood while maintaining her identity as one of the sport’s fiercest competitors.

Often referred to as the “Minister of Happiness” in Tunisia, Jabeur made history in 2022 when she reached a career-high ranking of World No. 2, becoming the first Arab and African woman to achieve the feat. She also made three Grand Slam finals — at Wimbledon (2022 and 2023) and the US Open (2022) — earning global admiration for her skill, humor, and sportsmanship.

With her baby due in April 2026, Jabeur is expected to be away from the professional circuit for an extended period.

However, she has hinted that her story on the court is far from over, referring to her unborn child as her “tiniest teammate,” a sign that a comeback may be in her plans.

As one of Africa’s most influential athletes, Jabeur’s journey into motherhood highlights the evolving conversation around female athletes balancing elite sport and family life, joining a growing list of champions who have returned to competition after childbirth.

For now, the Tunisian star says the court can wait — as she prepares for what she calls her “sweetest victory yet.”