Maria has made headlines after her remarkable victory at the Queen’s women’s tour event, marking the first time since 1973 that a women’s competition was held there. Expressing her emotions, she stated to BBC Sport, “When we arrived here, my little girl said ‘wow, that’s a nice trophy’ and I said ‘OK, let’s go for it’.”
At 38 years old, Maria has become the oldest WTA Tour champion since Serena Williams achieved the same feat in 2020. This victory is particularly sweet for her as she aims to continue playing until she can compete in doubles with her eldest daughter, Charlotte, who often practices with her.
Prior to this event, Maria found herself on a daunting nine-match losing streak. However, her exceptional performance during the tournament saw her not only lift the trophy but also enhance her ranking, moving from 86th to inside the world’s top 50. Her unique playing style, characterized by slice-heavy shots and strategic drop shots, has proven to be a challenge for many opponents, including prominent players like Anisimova, Keys, and Rybakina.
This unexpected triumph serves as a strong reminder that perseverance and belief in oneself can lead to incredible outcomes, no matter the odds. As Wimbledon approaches on June 30, Maria’s inspiring journey can motivate both fans and aspiring athletes alike.