Before today, Simona Halep had not defeated Serena Williams at a Grand Slam event. Before today, the two had played three times in majors, with Williams winning all three. But today, in the women’s final at Wimbledon, Halep played a strong match and emerged the victor, defeating Williams in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2.
It’s Halep’s second major championship, following her victory in last year’s French Open. She’s also the first Romanian to win a singles title at Wimbledon.
Simona Halep knocks off Serena Williams in the #Wimbledon final.
Halep becomes the first ever Romanian Wimbledon singles champion. pic.twitter.com/hh0wfQZlK2
— Sporting News (@sportingnews) July 13, 2019
The match was a high-profile one for both players: Halep has overcome numerous psychological and physical obstacles in recent years, while Williams was seeking her 24th Grand Slam victory, and her first since becoming a mother.
“It was my Mum’s dream for me. She said if I wanted to do something in tennis I have to play the final of Wimbledon, so today the day came”#Wimbledon | @Simona_Halep pic.twitter.com/XK7qvZ2XC9
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2019
Halep and Williams both entered the final on the back of commanding victories. Halep beat Elina Svitolina, while Williams defeated Barbora Strycova in just 59 minutes.
It’s been a busy tournament for Williams: her high-profile mixed doubles team with Andy Murray also lost on Wednesday.
Writing in The Telegraph, JJ Bull hailed the competitors for the tournament’s title. Bull wrote that Halep “showed herself to be not just one of tennis’ great defenders, chasing down everything Williams could throw at her, but also a strong attacking force.”
Watching two great players give their all in a high-profile match is what championships are all about, after all. And for those craving more tennis, Wimbledon isn’t over just yet, with a men’s final between all-time greats Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic still to come on Sunday.
Editor’s Note: RealClearLife, a news and lifestyle publisher, is now a part of InsideHook. Together, we’ll be covering current events, pop culture, sports, travel, health and the world. Subscribe here for our free daily newsletter.
Whether you’re looking to get into shape, or just get out of a funk, The Charge has got you covered. Sign up for our new wellness newsletter today.
