Wimbledon banned Russians and Belarusians from playing a few months back to avoid any apology by Vladimir Putin and his government. He could not have imagined that on July 9, a Muscovite would win the title of champion. In one of the most ironic sporting events of 2022, Elena Rybakina beat Ons Jabeur (3-6.6-2.6-2.6-2).
Kazakh who changed her nationality in 2004 after she was denied help by Russia for her career, won the most significant title of her life through an aggressive game that relied on service and winning shots. This was aided by a Jabeur, which shrank before the history.
Tunisian was determined to become the first Arab or African to win a Grand Slam. She became anxious when she came within one set of accomplishing this. After 17 errors by her opponent, she was able to score 6-3. She then fell to the second set’s perfect tennis, scoring 6-3. The third set saw her fall to the third set’s pointless dropshots and setbacks.
Rybakina, a 23-year-old hitter who is considered the best on the circuit, was a great player for attacking tennis. She needed only a sustained game, and a balance in her winners/errors account, to defeat the Tunisian and win her Grand Slam. Because Jabeur’s final long ball was her last, she barely smiled. Her joy was greater at her bench, where she couldn’t contain her tears, than it was on her own.
This Wimbledon is her third title, the most important and significant of her career. It also marks her as the first Kazakh to reach these heights in history. Funny thing is, her 18-year old self, Rybakina, who hadn’t yet decided to change her nationality was not allowed to take part in this tournament. She is the Wimbledon champion, with 23 years of experience and another flag.
