'New Simona Halep' shaping up as surprise French Open contender with Madrid Open run ahead of Ons Jabeur meet

It was around this time last year that Simona Halep said she was “filled with sadness” after having to withdraw from the French Open due to a calf injury. It was a setback that pushed Halep close to retirement – “I thought at 30 I would be done” – and left her doubting that she would rediscover her best form. But 12 months down the line, the mood has shifted significantly; there’s excitement and optimism around Halep rather than sadness.

Ad/> The two-time Grand Slam champion has said she has got the “fire” back after teaming up with Serena Williams’ former coach Patrick Mouratoglou. As seeds have tumbled in the Madrid Open, Halep has shone, beating world No. 2 Paula Badosa and world No.

16 Coco Gauff in straight sets. Her impressive performances have elevated her to one of the favourites for the title ahead of a quarter-final clash with world No. 10 Ons Jabeur, the highest-ranked player left in the draw.

WTA MadridGauff inspired by Swiatek exploits with 'extra motivation'AN HOUR AGO «I was in doubts when I arrived there,” said Halep, who is playing for the first time since suffering a leg injury at Indian Wells in late March. “I didn't know how much I can play and how good I can play still. But now I'm a different person.

I feel more confident. I feel that the pleasure helps me to work harder, to work more. I spend more time on the court.

»I think it's everything coming from inside, and at this point I feel happy with myself. I feel that I have the chance to play good tennis again. Actually, it's my No.