The sun finally returned to SW19, bringing fans a delightful day of world-class tennis. As Day 10 unfolded, several significant developments emerged, including a former champion's ongoing quest for glory, a resilient Czech's comeback, an Italian star's rise, and a heart-wrenching withdrawal due to injury. Here are the main headlines from Wednesday’s play.
Barbora Krejcikova: A Czech Comeback
Roland-Garros 2021 winner Barbora Krejcikova showcased her major credentials by securing her first Wimbledon singles semi-final spot. The Czech overcame the firepower of Jelena Ostapenko with a 6-4, 7-6(4) victory, having been down 1-4 in the second set on No.1 Court.
"I don't have any words right now. Just a minute ago, I told myself that I'm going to leave here everything I have, and I'm really happy that I did," said Krejcikova. "It's an unbelievable moment that I'm experiencing right now in my tennis career."
Krejcikova, who has completed the Career Grand Slam in doubles and won Wimbledon in 2018 and 2022, has had a tumultuous 2024 season due to a back injury and illness. Her grass-court results prior to Wimbledon were a modest 2-2. However, she has gradually found her form, highlighted by a win over No.11 seed Daniell Collins.
"It was a very, very difficult period. It was super difficult even before this tournament. I really want to thank my team," added the Czech. "There have been many doubts from inside but also from the outside world. I'm super happy that I never give up that I'm standing here right now and that I qualified to be in the semi-finals."
Royal Approval for Elena Rybakina
Elena Rybakina aims to reclaim her crown at The All-England Club. The Kazakh delivered a regal performance before Her Majesty The Queen Camilla, advancing to the Wimbledon semi-finals with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory over Elina Svitolina.
"Really pleased with how I played today," stated the 25-year-old, who hit 28 winners in a clinical display. "It's always tough to play against Elina; she's a great player, great fighter. No matter the score, it is not as easy as it might look like."
Rybakina, dismissing any "favourite" tag talk, emphasized her aggressive style and powerful serve as her key advantages. "Of course, I want to go to the end, but match by match, and I'm happy with the way I'm going and looking forward to the next one."
Musetti’s Marathon Masterpiece
Lorenzo Musetti captivated the No.1 Court crowd with his shot-making prowess, securing his first Grand Slam semi-final berth dramatically. The world No.25 edged out Taylor Fritz 3-6, 7-6(5), 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 in a thrilling encounter filled with cat-and-mouse rallies.
"I probably played my best tennis; I kept the best for the end," stated the 22-year-old. "The second set, I had a big reaction, and I changed my mind, my attitude, and that made the difference. Hopefully, on Friday, I’m going to have the same one."
Awaiting Musetti in the semi-finals is 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, who leads their head-to-head 5-1. "He’s a legend everywhere but especially here in Wimbledon in the last years," added Musetti. "I’m an ambitious guy, and I like to be challenged, so I’ll try my best and try to put my 100 percent effort, and let’s see what happens."
Novak Djokovic advances to semi-final
In a heartbreaking turn of events, No.9 seed Alex De Minaur had to withdraw before his maiden Wimbledon quarter-final against Novak Djokovic due to a hip injury. The Australian, visibly dejected, announced his withdrawal at a press conference.
"I'm devastated, but I had to pull out due to a hip injury, a little tear of the fiber cartilage," explained De Minaur. "I felt a loud crack during the last three points of my match against Fils and got a scan yesterday. It confirms that this was the injury and with a high risk of making it worse if I was to step on the court."
De Minaur’s withdrawal grants Djokovic a record-extending 49th Grand Slam semi-final appearance, equalling Roger Federer’s record of 13 appearances in the men's last four.
"It's no secret that at this stage in my career, this was the biggest match of my career," said De Minaur. "I wanted to do anything I could to play. I still wanted to wake up today hoping that I would feel some sort of miracle. It was too much to risk."
As Wimbledon 2024 progresses, the competition intensifies with each match. With seasoned champions and rising stars making their mark, fans can expect thrilling encounters in the days to come.
Inputs by Agencies
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