Kazakhstani Elena Rybakina produced a sensational display of power tennis to beat Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur 3-6 6-2 6-2 and won maiden a Grand Slam singles title at Wimbledon 2022 on Saturday.
Jabeur, bidding to become the first African woman and first Arab to win a Grand Slam singles title, settled quickly to take the opening set in blazing sunshine.
But the 23-year-old Rybakina began to find her mark with her powerful serves and groundstroke and seized control.
She looked nervous serving at 5-2 in the decider but stayed composed to claim the title, barely celebrating as Jabeur fired wide on match point.
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With Russian and Belarussian players banned from the grasscourt major following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, Rybakina would have been excluded from this year’s Wimbledon had she not switched allegiance from Russia four years ago.
Reacting, Rybakina said “It’s true, I didn’t expect this, or even the second week of a Grand Slam.
“To be a winner, it’s just amazing. I’m so happy, I wouldn’t be here without my team of course.
“He [Kazakh tennis president] came to support me in the semi-final and final, a big thanks.
“The most important thing is my parents, of course, they’re not here.”
“I was so nervous, I’m so happy to be here, I never felt something like this,” says Rybakina.
“Thanks to the crowd for their support, it was unbelievable.
“I want to congratulate Ons for a great match. It’s amazing. You’re inspirational to everybody.
“I ran so much today, I don’t need to do any more fitness. It’s just unbelievable.”
