Ons Jabeur’s tongue in cheek clip for Elena Rybakina after Wimbledon final
Ons Jabeur showed how every athlete should handle defeat, but the Arabian star couldn’t help but deliver one clip at her opponent.
Ons Jabeur has shown how to handle defeat like a champion.
The Tunisian world number two was toppled by the 17th seed, Russian-born Elena Rybakina in three-sets 3-6, 6-2, 6-2.
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After storming through the opening set, Rybakina stole the momentum and left Jabeur in her wake as she dropped four games over the final two sets
But as all eyes after a final go to the champion, it was Jabeur’s class that garnered praise from the tennis world.
As Jabeur approached the microphone after receiving her runner-up trophy from the Duchess of Cambridge, the crowd erupted into applause and rose to their feet.
“Thank you guys for your support, I really appreciate it,” Jabeur said.
“First of all I want to thank Elena she played amazing her and her team did a great job, she deserves this and hopefully next time it will be mine.”
Jabeur made history by becoming the first Arab woman to make a Grand Slam final and she’s out to keep inspiring the next generation.
“I love this tournament, I feel really sad but it’s tennis there is only one winner. I’m really happy I’m trying to inspire many generations from my country … I hope they’re listening.
“I also want to thank this beautiful crowd for their support during the two-weeks, it’s been amazing thank you very much.”
Of course Jabeur delivered a sly remark to her victorious opponent in her post-match interview.
After being told she’d be back at Wimbledon to one-day claim the title, Jabeur clipped Rybakina with tongue firmly in cheek.
“I mean Elena stole my title but it’s ok,” she said as the crowd erupted into laughter.
âIâm trying to inspire the next generations. I hope they are listeningâ@Ons_Jabeur, keep blazing the trail ð¹ð³#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100pic.twitter.com/t4214lhOFu
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 9, 2022
As Jabeur left the court, the love followed as the fans eagerly awaited the Tunisian star to emerge.
Walking down the stairs with the runner-up trophy in hand, the crowd broke out into applause before erupting into chants.
Jabeaur spent time taking selfies and signing autographs for the fans before walking away waving in a special moment.
“I can’t get over this incredible reception for Ons Jabeur and how unbelievably gracious she is, even in defeat,” ESPN’s D’Arcy Maine wrote.
You're a champion for so many, @Ons_Jabeur ð ð¹ð³#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100pic.twitter.com/ArMGzlBFH0
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 9, 2022
“What a ride! Thank you to everyone who supported me since day 1 of this journey: my parents, my husband, my coach and my team. Without you, this would not have been possible at all. I love you all so much,” Jabeur tweeted.