A tearful Linda Noskova acknowledged that her incredible victory over close friend Karolina Muchova in the Wimbledon final was an emotional rollercoaster.
In a Centre Court classic on Saturday, Noskova won 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 after wasting five match points in the second set. Since her fellow Czech and childhood idol Petra Kvitova won Wimbledon in 2011, the 21-year-old is the youngest woman to accomplish it.
Noskova broke down in tears after losing her second set, but she was able to muster the fortitude to control her jitters in the last set. During the on-court post-match interview, the ninth seed broke down in tears once more as she recalled the thrilling encounter.
“All these matches have been so tough, physically and mentally. Today especially, it’s never easy to get the last point,” AFP quoted Noskova as saying.
Noskova and compatriot Muchova are great friends off the court and played doubles together in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Noskova added that it was difficult to witness Muchova cry after missing out on her first Grand Slam victory.
“Karo you really made me work for it. Like you said we are friends. I’m so glad I could play my first Grand Slam final with you. You are such a fighter. I think we made history today. All our Czech fans will be proud of us no matter the result,” Noskova said.
Noskova dedicated her victory to her mother, who passed away in 2024, adding even more pathos to an already poignant afternoon.
“There is one more person I would like to thank — my mum. I would definitely not be standing here without you,” she said before blowing a kiss to the sky.
“I don’t usually cry. All the hard work and sweat these last two weeks was worth it. I can’t wait to come back next year.”
Martina Navratilova, who was born in the Czech Republic and has won several Wimbledon championships while representing the United States, broke down in tears alongside the Princess of Wales in the royal box.
During the conversation, Muchova wiped away tears as she was unable to control her emotions.
“It’s really tough to find any words. I’ll start with Linda — my ex-friend! I’m kidding obviously, kinda,” she said.
“You are so young, it is your first Grand Slam final and the way you played was unbelievable. You are a very kind person. You deserve it.”
As the tears flowed again, she added: “I’m pretty disappointed now. When I look to my corner… sorry, it’s pretty emotional.
“I’ll be fighting more. I want that trophy. I hope I can come to the final again.”
