In a thrilling match that went the distance, Ons Jabeur fought back from a set down to defeat defending champion Elena Rybakina 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-1 and reach the Wimbledon semi-finals.
The match was a classic battle of styles, with Jabeur's power and variety of shots contrasting with Rybakina's heavy serve and groundstrokes. Jabeur started the match well, breaking Rybakina in the first game and taking a 3-0 lead. However, Rybakina fought back, breaking Jabeur twice to level the set at 5-5. The set went to a tiebreak, which Rybakina won 7-5.
In the second set, Jabeur raised her level and began to dominate the match. She broke Rybakina twice to take a 4-1 lead, and then served out the set to level the match at 1-1.
The third set was a one-sided affair, as Jabeur broke Rybakina four times to win the match in just over two hours.
Jabeur's victory was a major upset, as Rybakina was the defending champion and had been in good form leading up to the match. However, Jabeur was simply too good on the day, and she showed why she is considered one of the best players in the world.
This victory is a major step forward for Jabeur, who is now one step away from reaching her first Grand Slam final. She will face Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals, and if she can win that match, she will become the first Arab woman to reach a Grand Slam final.
