Barbora Krejcikova’s journey to the Wimbledon final is a testament to resilience. Battling a bad back and a string of losses this season, the Czech player defied expectations, reaching the final against Jasmine Paolini, another unexpected finalist. Neither has ever played in a Wimbledon singles final, making the match a historic showdown.
Both Krejcikova and Paolini fought back from losing the first set in their respective semifinals. Krejcikova, seeded 31st, overcame 2022 champion Elena Rybakina in a thrilling match, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. Meanwhile, Paolini outlasted Donna Vekic in the longest Wimbledon women’s semifinal ever, 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (10-8). Both women found their momentum by playing more aggressively, a strategy they’ll likely employ again in the final.
Krejcikova’s strong doubles background – she boasts seven Grand Slam doubles titles, including two at Wimbledon – proved valuable as she dominated the net in her semifinal. The 28-year-old’s rise to the final is remarkable considering her recent struggles with injuries and illnesses. Before arriving at Wimbledon, Krejcikova had won only three matches out of nine since the Australian Open in January.
Paolini, also 28, is making history as the first Italian woman to reach the Wimbledon final in the Open era, which began in 1968. She’s also the first woman to reach both the French Open and Wimbledon finals in the same season since Serena Williams in 2016. The Italian player, known for her strong defensive skills and relentless pursuit of every shot, has frustrated opponents with her ability to get to every ball.
Both players have areas to work on before the final. Krejcikova committed six double faults against Rybakina, while Paolini narrowly escaped defeat against Vekic after squandering two match points. Despite the challenges, both Krejcikova and Paolini are prepared for the biggest match of their careers, a chance to etch their names into Wimbledon history.
