Swiatek makes tennis history at Wimbledon

Poland's Iga Swiatek won her first Wimbledon title, inflicting the ultimate punishment in tennis on her overwhelmed opponent. In a completely one-sided final lasting just 57 minutes, the 24-year-old defeated American Amanda Anisimova 6-0, 6-0. Only one women's final in Wimbledon's long history has ended with this result: in 1911, Britain's Dorethea Chambers defeated her compatriot Dora Boothby, also 6-0, 6-0.

For Swiatek, this is already the sixth Grand Slam title of her career. She is the only player in professional tennis history, alongside Margaret Court and Monica Seles, to have won her first six Grand Slam finals. After four titles at Roland Garros (clay) and her 2022 US Open triumph (hard court), the Pole has now won a Major title on all three surfaces – her first ever on grass. She now has 100 Grand Slam tournament victories.

Tears already during the humiliation

The 23-year-old Anisimova, who had eliminated world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals, was completely overwhelmed in her first final at one of the four major tournaments.

Under the direction of German referee Miriam Bley, the match developed into a one-sided affair from the start. Anisimova seemed unable to cope with the pressure of the big stage and made many simple errors. Swiatek was merciless – securing the first set after just 24 minutes. Nothing changed in the second set, with Anisimova wiping tears from her eyes at 0-2. Swiatek continued undeterred and stormed to victory.

Harmony at the award ceremony

"It feels very surreal. I want to congratulate Amanda on a great two weeks," Swiatek said after presenting the trophy. She couldn't have imagined this in her wildest dreams, said Swiatek, who thanked her coach: "After the ups and downs of late, we've shown that it can work."

Anisimova congratulated the Pole fairly. "You are an inspiration to me. Congratulations to you," she said, adding after the bitter defeat: "I ran out of steam a bit today. I had hoped to play better." However, she said she would "never forget" the experience. She emotionally thanked her mother, who had flown in especially for the occasion. "It's because of you that I didn't lose," Anisimova said with a laugh.

As the last remaining German player at Wimbledon, Laura Siegemund was eliminated in the quarterfinals.