Ons Jabeur celebrates a win (Twitter)
Ons Jabeur is set to take on Elena Rybakina in the women’s singles final of Wimbledon 2022
No.3 seed Ons Jabeur from Tunisia, became the first Arab player to reach a Grand Slam singles final with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 win over Tatjana Maria. Jabeur’s story is one of an inspirational late bloomer who lacked patience in her younger days before finding the right mentality to complement her talent. Meanwhile, her opponent for the final, Elena Rybakina became the first singles player from Kazakhstan to reach a major final with a 6-3, 6-3 dismantling of former champion Simona Halep.
Jabeur has become a favourite at Wimbledon, and she and good friend Maria thrilled the crowd, before sharing a long and loving embrace at the net after the Tunisian secured victory. Known as the ‘Minister of Happiness’ in her country, Jabeur is a popular figure in Tunisia, the Arab world and Africa as she continues to be a trailblazer.
Speaking after her win, Jabeur said – “I’m a proud Tunisian woman here today and I know in Tunisia they are going crazy right now. I try to inspire as much as I can and I want to see more Arab and African players on the tour.”
Ons Jabeur has certainly become a fan favourite both on and off the court. Best wishes and support poured in from fans on social media after her semi-final win.
“So happy! Made my day on my birthday. Come on ONS, you can do it on Saturday!”, wrote a fan, who certainly got a perfect birthday gift.
Another fan tweeted, “She was brilliant and seems such a lovely person. I hope she wins.”
“Rooting for her on Saturday. What a great player and seems like a lovely person” – wrote another fan, echoing similar sentiments.
“She’s such a joy to watch, love her game! Also, seems like an incredible good hearted woman, compassionate, humble and a great sense of humor, tweeted another fan.
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