World number 32 Barbora Krejcikova said beating Jasmine Paolini in three sets to become the Wimbledon 2024 women’s singles champion was “the best day of her life”.
The Czech held off an impressive comeback from the Italian to secure a 6-2 2-6 6-4 victory on her third championship point.
“I don’t have any words right now,” said Krejcikova. “It’s definitely the best day of my tennis career and also the best day of my life.
“It’s super-difficult to explain what I’m feeling. Jasmine had a great two weeks and it was a great final.”
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Krejcikova vs Paolini: Czech wins Wimbledon
“We were fighting for every single ball and I was the lucky one,” reflected Krejcikova. “I was just telling myself to brave.”
“It was such a difficult match. I enjoyed it so much and I’m super-happy that I’m standing here and can enjoy this moment.”
Krejcikova became the second successive Czech champion at SW19 following Marketa Vondrousova’s shock win in 2023.
The 28-year-old had a gruelling first-round win over Veronika Kudermetova, won two tie-breaks in the next round against Katie Volynets and recovered from a set behind to beat Elena Rybakina in the semi-finals.
Breathtaking. Brilliant. Barbora.
Barbora Krejcikova is the 2024 Ladies’ Singles Champion 🏆#Wimbledon PIC.TWITTER.COM/XZ0JJEZO89
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) JULY 13, 2024
Wimbledon women’s final 2024: Krejcikova thrilled
“Nobody really believes I got to the final and nobody’s going to believe [I won],” said 2021 French Open champion Krejcikova, also paying tribute to her late friend and compatriot, Jana Novotna, who won the Wimbledon singles title four times.
“I had a very tough first match, winning 7-5 in the third set. I had injuries and didn’t have a good start to the season.”
Paolini has lost a second straight final at a Grand Slam following her defeat to Iga Swiatek in Paris.
“It’s a dream come true to play here on this stage,” she said, describing Krejcikova’s performance as “unbelievable” and “beautiful tennis”. “The last two months have been crazy for me.”
