Gabriela Dabrowski's Resilience and Redefined Priorities in Tennis

Winning still brings joy to Gabriela Dabrowski, but her perspective has shifted. The experience of battling cancer has changed her priorities. Tennis is no longer the central focus of her life.

Dabrowski emphasizes that her health is now her primary concern. She acknowledges that while she would be saddened if tennis were taken away, her well-being is what truly matters. She believes there are more significant issues than winning a tennis match.

Last December, the 33-year-old doubles player revealed that she had undergone two surgeries to treat breast cancer, following a diagnosis in April. Despite her personal battle, she achieved success, winning a mixed doubles bronze medal at the Paris Olympics and the WTA Finals title with her partner.

Returning to the court after surgery brought a new appreciation for every moment. Dabrowski explained that her approach to the sport has changed. She now plays because she wants to, not because she feels obligated. This shift has lessened the sting of losses while enhancing the joy of victories, especially when shared with those who supported her.

Dabrowski and her partner, Erin Routliffe, won the 2023 US Open and reached the Wimbledon final last year. They are set to compete in the National Bank Open's women's doubles tournament in Montreal, marking Dabrowski's first home appearance since sharing her story.

Dabrowski continues to manage side effects from her treatment, including radiation, surgery, and hormone therapy. She credits her medical team for helping her maintain her fitness through diet, sleep, training, and recovery. She is also adjusting to the demands of the travel-heavy circuit, including managing jet lag.

This season has been challenging due to a rib injury since February, which has kept her off the court more than her cancer diagnosis. Despite this, she and Routliffe won the Stuttgart Open in April. Dabrowski later withdrew from several tournaments before returning to Wimbledon.

The pair performed well at Wimbledon, reaching the quarter-finals. Dabrowski is proud of her recent performance, considering her circumstances. She is focused on balancing her healing with increasing her training volume.

Dabrowski hopes to team up with Felix Auger-Aliassime in the US Open mixed doubles tournament in August. However, she is uncertain if she will get the chance. The tournament format prioritizes players with high singles rankings, which could exclude doubles specialists. Dabrowski believes the format leans towards an exhibition and questions whether it should be considered a mixed doubles championship.