Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.

Lucie Safarova, hospitalized in her hometown of Brno with a debilitating bacterial illness reported as infectious just three weeks ago, intends to make her competitive comeback next week at the Generali Linz Ladies tournament.

After making it to the final of the French Open at Roland Garros in June, Safarova is intent of contesting the WTA Finals for the first time as a singles player this year.

The 28 year-old Czech posted a picture on Facebook of her training with former Czech no.1 Jiri Novak in Prostejov along with the accompanying message: “After long five weeks I’m back on court.

“I’m really happy to be training again and I’m excited to play in Linz next week! Thank you to all doctors who took part in my recovery and all you fans for support! I wish you all a nice day and remember health is number one.”

Safarova has already qualified for the WTA Finals in Singapore in doubles with Bethanie Mattek-Sands, for winning the Australian and French Opens.

In the singles race she currently stands sixth but will be overtaken by Angelique Kerber who is through to the Beijing quarterfinals after ousting Caroline Wozniacki.

Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.