German qualifier Tatjana Maria`s remarkable victory at the Queen`s Club women`s singles tournament has sparked speculation about her chances at Wimbledon. Her win marks the first time the event has had a champion since 1973.
The 37-year-old, who entered the tournament via qualifying, clinched the title – which was absent for 52 years – by defeating American Amanda Anisimova, 23, in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-4 at the historic venue.
Speaking to the packed crowd, Anisimova graciously commented on Maria`s performance: “Tatjana, what an incredible week. So special. Congrats to you and your beautiful family.” She even added, “I wouldn’t be surprised if I see you in the Wimbledon final as you really had me running out there.”
At 37, Maria becomes the oldest player to win a WTA title since tennis icon Serena Williams, who won in Auckland in 2020 at the age of 38.
Starting the week as a qualifier, Maria was a significant underdog, with odds of 160/1 to lift the trophy.
Maria, a devoted mother of two young daughters, previously reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2022. Reflecting on her victory, she said, “I enjoyed every second here. A pleasure to play here.” She paid tribute to her husband and coach on Father`s Day, calling him “really, really special” and “amazing”. To her children, she simply said, “I love you both.” She shared a sweet anecdote about her younger daughter admiring the trophy: “‘Wow, that’s a nice trophy, so big.’ I said: “Let’s go for the trophy.’” Maria added about their celebration plans, “Whatever it is, I guess they’ll want to eat some Nutella.”
Maria`s path to the final was anything but easy, requiring her to overcome several high-profile opponents, including former Grand Slam finalists or champions like Leylah Fernandez, Karolina Muchova, Elena Rybakina, and Madison Keys.
A notable challenge came in the second round against Muchova, where Maria was on the verge of defeat, trailing 7-6, 5-4, 30-0, before mounting a remarkable comeback to secure the win.
