Petra Kvitova Falls in Indian Wells Opener After Maternity Leave

The two-time Wimbledon champion continues her search for a first win since returning to professional tennis following the birth of her first child.

Petra Kvitova lost a three-set opening-round match to France's Varvara Gracheva at the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
This marks Kvitova's second consecutive first-round loss since returning to the tour after a 16-month maternity leave following the birth of her son in July 2024.
Kvitova, a two-time Wimbledon champion, showed resilience by taking the first set and briefly leading in the third before Gracheva regained control to secure the win.
Gracheva praised Kvitova for balancing motherhood and professional tennis, calling her comeback an inspiration for athletes and women worldwide.
Gracheva advances to face Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva in the second round, while other notable matches included Caroline Garcia setting up a clash with defending champion Iga Swiatek.