Jabeur, ranked sixth in the world, suffered a 6-4, 6-4 defeat against the unseeded Czech player Marketa Vondrousova on Saturday. This loss came exactly a year after her defeat in the Wimbledon final against Elena Rybakina.
The US Open brought further disappointment later that year when she once again finished as the runner-up, this time to Iga Swiatek.
With three consecutive Grand Slam final losses, Jabeur now joins the ranks of only eight women who have faced such a setback. However, she can find solace in the fact that players like Chris Evert, Kim Clijsters, and Simona Halep also experienced similar defeats before ultimately winning Grand Slam titles.
Speaking about her latest loss, Jabeur expressed her frustration, saying, “It will be difficult to put on a brave face. I know I won’t look my best in the photos, so that won’t help either.” She had aimed to become the first Arab or African woman to claim a Grand Slam singles title. Reflecting on her career, she added, “This defeat is the most painful one I have experienced.”
Defiantly, she declared, “I promise that one day I will return and emerge victorious in this tournament.”
Kim Clijsters, the former world number one, also endured a series of losses in major finals. She fell short in the French Open finals of 2001 and 2003, the US Open final in 2003, and the Australian Open final in 2004.
Jabeur conveyed her deep admiration for Clijsters, who extended her solace and guidance discreetly at Centre Court. “I hold an immense fondness and reverence for Kim. She serves as an extraordinary source of inspiration for me,” Jabeur expressed. “The fact that she dedicates her time to provide me with counsel and offer unwavering support holds immeasurable value in my eyes. It is truly priceless.” Additionally, Jabeur mentioned that Clijsters had shared her own encounters of losing four finals, which bestowed Jabeur with valuable discernment. She acknowledged that certain circumstances surpass an individual’s control and remarked, “It simply wasn’t destined to unfold.”
A Heartwarming Moment with Princess Kate
The beloved Jabeur was embraced by Kate, the Princess of Wales, who presented the trophies. Recounting the encounter, Jabeur revealed, “At first, she seemed unsure whether to give me a hug or not. I assured her that hugs are always welcome from me. It was a very touching moment, and she has always been kind to me.”
When asked about the conversation with Princess Kate, Jabeur shared, “She said the same things as last year. She encouraged me to stay strong and come back to win a Grand Slam, to conquer Wimbledon. She was genuinely supportive.”
In the match against Vondrousova, Jabeur initially led with a 2-0 and 4-2 advantage in the first set. However, the 24-year-old Czech player made a comeback. Jabeur’s 15 unforced errors in the first set proved to be crucial, while Vondrousova committed only six.
Despite holding a 3-1 lead in the second set, Jabeur couldn’t convert it into a victory. Vondrousova, who missed last year’s Wimbledon due to wrist surgery, mounted yet another impressive comeback.
“It’s painful when you feel so close to achieving your desired outcome, only to find yourself starting over,” Jabeur lamented. “Nevertheless, I will push aside these negative thoughts and maintain a positive outlook.”