Iga Swiatek has been crowned French Open champion, but the tennis world felt for runner-up Karolina Muchova after she broke down in tears ahead of her speech in a spirited effort. Swiatek continues to create history as the dominant World No.1 having become the youngest player to reach four grand slam titles since Serena Williams.
The 22-year-old also became the first woman since Justine Henin to win back-to-back Roland Garros titles. But she faced the toughest challenge in the final after Muchova pushed her all the way in an epic.
Swiatek has largely powered her way through opponents in Paris, but Muchova’s second set fightback had the Philippe Chatrier crowd on their feet. The Pole eventually broke Muchova in the third after a double failt to seal the match in dramatic scenes.
Ahead of Muchova’s speech, the Czech broke down in tears having come so close to reaching her maiden grand slam title. In a lovely moment, tennis icon Chris Evert leaned over to whisper some encouragement in her ear.
Muchova addressed the crowd after the tough moment as she fought back tears having given it her all. “I gave my everything on the court today, so I have nothing to regret,” Muchova said.
“The feeling is a little bitter, because I felt it was very close. But overall, to call myself a Grand Slam finalist, it’s an amazing achievement, and for sure big motivation. Iga is world No.1 and I was so close.
“I think now that I can do it. It’s a lot of work and effort to do, but I’m willing to take that. I’ll try my best in other two Slams this year and next year, and I hope I will again get a chance to play for the title again.”
Fans were left gutted for the Czech after the tough moment on the podium. The tennis world was full of praise for the classy Swiatek, but also the effort of Muchova who received a standing ovation.
