Jasmine Paolini Triumphs in Wimbledon’s Longest Women's Semifinal, Set to Face Barbora Krejcikova Next
LONDON (AP) — Jasmine Paolini showcased remarkable resilience and determination in the longest Wimbledon women's semifinal on record, battling Donna Vekic over 2 hours and 51 minutes. After dropping the opening set and facing the brink of defeat multiple times, Paolini's relentless spirit shone through.
Throughout the match on Thursday, Paolini continuously reminded herself to "Try, point by point" and to "Fight for every ball." Her perseverance paid off in a thrilling 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (10-8) victory over the unseeded Vekic, earning Paolini a spot in her second consecutive Grand Slam final.
This win is particularly significant for Paolini, who had never won a match at the All England Club until last week. Now, she is set to face No. 31 Barbora Krejcikova for the title. Reflecting on the match, the No. 7-seeded Paolini said, "This match I will remember forever."
The thrilling encounter captivated thousands of spectators and millions of television viewers, with Paolini describing it as "a rollercoaster of emotions."
The second semifinal also featured its own drama. In a match lasting 44 fewer minutes, 2021 French Open champion Barbora Krejcikova staged a comeback to defeat 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. Krejcikova's victory sets up an exciting final against Paolini, promising another chapter of intense competition at this year's Wimbledon. Source- AP NEWS
