In a season filled with rising stars and established champions, Barbora Krejcikova’s triumph at Wimbledon stood out as one of the most unexpected yet compelling stories of 2024. The Czech player, celebrated for her 2021 Roland Garros victory, proved she still had the tools to compete with the best.
Barbora Krejcikova in 2024
A Rocky Start
Krejcikova’s 2024 campaign began under a cloud of uncertainty. Persistent fitness struggles and an uncharacteristic lack of form saw her bow out early in several tournaments. The consistency that once defined her game seemed to have evaporated, leaving fans and analysts to wonder if her best days were behind her. By the end of the clay season, her ranking had slipped, and expectations for her grass-court swing were modest at best.
Turning the Tide at Wimbledon
Krejcikova entered Wimbledon as an unseeded player, a rare position for someone with a Grand Slam pedigree. However, the lower expectations seemed to work in her favor, allowing her to play with a freedom and determination that had been missing earlier in the year.
In one of the tournament’s most thrilling runs, Krejcikova navigated a challenging draw, defeating top contenders and grass-court specialists alike. Her ability to mix aggressive baseline play with her trademark deft touch at the net proved invaluable. In the final, she overcame a fierce opponent in Jasmine Paolini in a three-set battle that showcased her resilience and tactical genius.
A Season Defined by Resilience
Krejcikova’s Wimbledon victory was a testament to her mental toughness. After months of struggling to find her rhythm, she peaked at the perfect time, reminding the tennis world of her championship mettle. The win also vaulted her back into the top 15, reigniting conversations about her status as one of the sport’s most versatile players.
For much of 2024, Krejcikova flew under the radar, overshadowed by younger players and more consistent performers. But her Wimbledon triumph served as a powerful reminder that in tennis, narratives can shift in an instant.
As the 2025 season approaches, Krejcikova’s resurgence positions her as a dangerous contender once again. Whether she can maintain the momentum remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Barbora Krejcikova is a name no one can afford to overlook.
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
