Belinda Bencic conquers Jelena Ostapenko's 'Russian roulette' in victorious Grand Slam return

“Sometimes it feels like a little bit of Russian roulette (smiling). Sometimes you're a spectator on your own court.”

That was the description Belinda Bencic gave to press Monday evening about facing Jelena Ostapenko.

The No. 16 seed, one of the streakiest players on tour and toughest to sustain a rhythm against, gave Bencic something to think about after saving five match points—all with winners—to break the Swiss. The display came when Bencic served for their match in her first Grand Slam appearance since the 2023 US Open.

Happy with how the comeback is going so far. Belinda Bencic

The Tokyo Olympic gold medalist then watched as her 4-2 tiebreak lead suddenly morphed into two set points for Ostapenko. It was then Bencic’s turn to show her resolve, as she ran away with the last four points to close out the 2017 French Open title holder with a 6-3, 7-6 (6) victory.

“I tried to stay consistent, stay tough in important moments. Glad that it was enough today,” said Bencic. “Obviously very happy with the win and with the chance to play another round.”

Bencic missed the majority of the 2024 season, having given birth to her daughter Bella last April. The former world No. 7 returned in October at an ITF event in Hamburg and later finished runner-up to Alycia Parks at the WTA 125 tournament in Angers.

While the 27-year-old doesn’t believe she’s playing with extra motivation as a new mother, the role has changed her overall approach to the sport.

“I think it gives me more of, a like, relaxed mode because I think I always want to do my best. Sometimes I put too much pressure on myself,” she said. “Now I feel like it's a bit easier to play because, yeah, there's something more important than tennis.”

Bencic kicked off her 2025 by splitting two United Cup matches, then qualified in Adelaide. While there, she led Anna Kalinskaya by a set before the Russian retired from their opener. Though Liudmila Samsonova would come through a three-setter in the next round, Bencic left feeling satisified with her Melbourne preparation.

“Definitely results-wise I'm happy how it's going. Step by step I feel better, also in practice every day,” said the eight-time WTA title holder. “Obviously you need the results to back it up.

“Happy with how the comeback is going so far.”

For a place in the third round, Bencic meets Suzan Lamens of the Netherlands.