At Wimbledon,
As in 2022, a small group of Tunisian supporters sang and ululated to celebrate their heroine’s historic qualification for the Wimbledon final. National glory, Ons Jabeur has once again earned his nickname “Minister of Happiness”.
I just wanted to try to break it. I had to wait for the second set when I trailed 4-2. It was very difficult for me to return his serve. I was like, ‘I’m just gonna go out there and hit my back (smile)’. I was going back much better. She missed a few shots, which kept me in the game. I fought at every point.
The draw was much more difficult this year. Playing against extraordinary players who not only play well on any surface, but also on grass. It was a real challenge. And I picked it up for now. It gives me more confidence to be ready for the final.
The first thing that comes to mind is patience. I learned to be very patient and to accept what was happening to me with the injury I had at the start of the season. I was doing my best to be ready for the competition. I am very proud because the old me would have lost this match and I would already be going home, but I found the strength to fight. I learn to transform negative energy, like frustration, into positive energy. I knew how to go deep inside me to win this match… and, who knows, the tournament.
I work on myself like crazy. You have no idea what I’m doing. I’m very hard on myself, I try to improve everything. I am sometimes very impatient, which is not good. Maybe the injuries slowed me down and taught me to be patient. For my part, I have always believed in the mind, in work. That’s what I’ve been doing for the last few years, maybe since I was 10, because I know that if you’re ready physically, mentally, you can always win. That’s probably what happened in the last two games. I’m getting really close to the Grand Slam victory that I’ve always wanted.
I learned a lot from last year’s final, but also from the US Open final, and I will give my best. I hope the third final will be the good one.
People always tell me, “Win or lose, we love you.” Those are words that are great to hear. I always try to remember that, even though I know everyone wants me to win. It’s funny, because some fans are texting my mental trainer giving her advice on how to train (smiles). I’m sure they also sent messages to Issam and Karim (his coach and physical trainer). I will prepare 100%. I hope to be able to make history, not only for Tunisia, but also for Africa.
