Wimbledon: Simona Halep plays ‘best match’ of her life as she stuns Serena Williams in straight sets to lift the crown

Serena Williams’ quest for her first Grand Slam since becoming a mother continued as Simona Halep beat her in straight sets in the Wimbledon final on Sunday. The Romanian didn’t allow the veteran to settle at all at the All England Club to win her first Wimbledon title and second Grand Slam after the 2018 French Open by beating the American 6-2, 6-2. The 27-year-old stated that she had never played a better match as she stunned the 23-time-Grand Slam winner. 

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After clinching the match, Halep was asked if she had ever played a better match than this, she replied, “I've never played a better match than that. It was the best match, and Serena really inspires us, so thank you.” 

Halep disagreed on not showing any nerves with her convincing display, “I had nerves. My stomach had nerves. But there's no place for nerves when the match begins. I'll never forget this day. My mom told me if I have to do something in Tennis then I have to win Wimbledon. So thanks Mum.” 

She added, “At the start, I told people in the locker room, that if I win then I'll get membership (at the All-England Lawn Tennis club) for life, and so that was one of my motivations.” 

This is Halep’s first final at Wimbledon and the semifinal in 2015 was her previous best performance. Naturally, Grass isn’t her favourite surface, however, she said, “ I've worked a lot to improve my game. It's hard to run a lot on grass, and I love to run. But it was an amazing year, and I can't wait to come back.” 

The 2-time-Grand Slam winner also thanked her team for making her a better person on the court and also thanked her country. She added, “To my fans and family, thanks for all the support.” 

Even Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton and Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle caught the action at the All England Club. When told about the Royal Family members' presence, Halep exulted, “Thanks for coming everyone from the royal family, it's been an honour to play here.” 

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Meanwhile, Serena lauded her opponent, “She really played out of her mind, congratulations to her. I keep trying and enjoying the sport, it's been really fun. My team is amazing, thanks for all the support, I love you all.”