Barbora Krejcikova achieved a monumental feat on Thursday, securing her first-ever Wimbledon final appearance. The 28-year-old Czech player displayed exceptional skill and resilience, overcoming the reigning champion Elena Rybakina in a thrilling three-set encounter, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.
This remarkable achievement holds even deeper meaning for Krejcikova, as she dedicated her victory to the memory of her late coach and former Wimbledon champion, Jana Novotna. Novotna, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 49, played a pivotal role in Krejcikova’s journey, instilling in her the unwavering determination to fight for every point.
“She was telling me a lot of stories about her journey here and how she was trying to win Wimbledon,” Krejcikova shared, her voice filled with emotion. “I was so far away when we had this talk. Now I am here and I am in a final.”
Krejcikova’s emotions ran high as she reflected on Novotna’s influence during her post-match interview on Centre Court. “I remember thinking about her a lot. I have so many beautiful memories and when I step on the court I fight for every single ball as that is what she would want me to do.”
Novotna’s Wimbledon legacy is deeply intertwined with the tournament. She conquered the grass courts in 1998, after experiencing the heartbreak of losing in the finals in 1993 and 1997. Her 1993 defeat against Steffi Graf remains etched in the annals of Wimbledon history. Novotna, leading 4-1 in the third set, was just a point away from extending her advantage to 5-1, but a double fault turned the tide of the match. She ultimately lost the final 7-6 (8/6), 1-6, 6-4.
Now, Krejcikova carries the torch of Novotna’s spirit, her victory a testament to the enduring power of inspiration and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. On Saturday, she will face Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in a battle for the Wimbledon title, aiming to honor the legacy of her mentor and etch her own name into the history books.
