Krejcikova edges Paolini in thriller to clinch maiden Wimbledon singles title

The 28-year-old Czech, who won the French Open in 2021, now adds the Venus Rosewater Dish to her collection of trophies, which includes 10 Grand Slam doubles titles and an Olympic gold medal.

Krejcikova credited Novotna for changing her life and encouraging her to pursue a professional tennis career, fulfilling her mentor's belief by winning a Grand Slam title just as Novotna had done in 1998.

Novotna had won the hearts of fans when she famously cried on the Duchess of Kent's shoulders during the 1993 presentation ceremony after losing to Steffi Graf.

On Saturday, Krejcikova was the one who couldn't hold back her tears when she saw her idol's name on the honours board at the All England Club.

"It was a very emotional moment for me to see my name on the board next to hers. I miss Jana a lot," Krejcikova told reporters.

"I believe she would be proud. I think she would be really excited that I'm on the same board as she is because Wimbledon was very special to her."

Krejcikova's victory at Wimbledon was particularly meaningful as she had a losing record prior to the tournament.

Despite only winning seven matches throughout the season due to a back injury and illness, she managed to double that tally with her triumph at the grasscourt major.

After her win, she expressed her joy by exclaiming, "It feels great," and became the eighth different women's champion in as many editions.

On the other hand, Paolini, who had recently lost the French Open final, was aiming to become the first Italian player to win a Wimbledon singles title.

She emphasized the importance of maintaining her current level of play to achieve further success, despite feeling a mix of emotions after falling short in the final.