Ons Jabeur made history as she became the first Arab star to reach a Grand Slam singles final - but she made sure she admirably shared the spotlight with opponent and friend Tatjana Maria.
Tunisian third seed Jabeur reached the Wimbledon final as she clinched a 6-2 3-6 6-1 win over Maria in the semi-final on Thursday. The 27-year-old has become a favourite at Wimbledon thanks to her charisma and warm personality.
After sealing her historic win, Jabeur simply smiled before walking to the net to enjoy a long embrace with her friend Maria. She brought her defeated opponent out onto the court to bask in the applause with her as the two shared a touching moment in front of the SW19 faithful.
Speaking after her win, Jabeur said: “I’m a proud Tunisian woman standing here today and I know in Tunisia they are going crazy right now. I just try to inspire as much as I can.
“I just want to see more and more not just Tunisian but African and Arab players on tour. I just love the game and want to share this experience with them. I see the juniors playing here - they’re 14 - and I hope they grow up and play here on Centre Court.”
Ranked second in the world, Jabeur is the first African woman to reach a major final since South Africa's Sandra Reynolds at Wimbledon in 1960. Her story from impatient budding talent to level-headed superstar is inspirational and her trail-blazing efforts could redefine tennis in Tunisia and the wider Arab world.
Known as the 'Minister of Happiness' in her home country, Jabeur is a popular figure in Tunisia, the Arab world and Africa as she continues to break down barriers. She was the overwhelming favourite heading into the semi-final against friend Maria, who gave birth to her second child Cecilia only last year before defying the odds in a stunning run to the Wimbledon semi-finals.
After an edgy start by both players, Jabeur's quality shone through in the first set. Maria's serve came under pressure in an nervy opening game, and the German eventually held after withstanding two break points.
However, Jabeur took control in Maria’s next service game and the Tunisian appeared to be cruising towards a routine win when she earned two more break points in the second game of the second set. Her opponent saved those and it surprisingly led to an immense swing in momentum.
Do you think Ons Jabeur will win Wimbledon? Let us know in the comments section.
Maria decisively broke in the fourth game and served it out to the delight of the 15,000 fans who were desperate for the action to continue. However, Jabeur regained her form at the start of the crucial third set.
Jabeur broke for a 2-0 lead with a sensational forehand winner as she went on to secure the monumental win. She will face Elena Rybakina in the final on Saturday.
“It is a dream come true after years and years of work and sacrifice,” said Jabeur.
“I’m really happy it is paying off and now there is one more match to come.”
