Linda Noskova got the better of her fellow Czech Karolina Muchova in the Wimbledon final.
Noskova led her compatriot by a set and 5-2, before Muchova fought back valiantly, saving five championship points to force a decider.
However, Noskova was able to regroup for this third set and ultimately beat Muchova 6-2, 5-7 6-3.
Both players were clearly emotional in the post-match speeches, as Noskova sent a message to Muchova.
Linda Noskova and Karolina Muchova congratulate each other after the Wimbledon final
This is a second Grand Slam final defeat for Muchova, who was teary-eyed from the start of her interview on Centre Court.
Despite the emotions, Muchova was still able to make a joke towards Noskova, before congratulating the new Wimbledon champion.
“It’s really tough to find any words but I will start with Linda. My ex-friend!” joked Muchova. “I am kidding, obviously. You are so young and this was your first final of a Grand Slam and the way you handled it and the way you played was unbelievable.
“You are a very kind person and human being, so congratulations to you and your team, you deserve it.”
Muchova then wanted to thank those in her player’s box who had supported her throughout her run to the Wimbledon final.
“When I look to my corner I had all my friends and family who cancelled their plans for me today, I appreciate them a lot,” added Muchova.
“And my team who have been putting up with me these past weeks, pushing me and keeping me positive. Thank you guys very much. I will be fighting. I want the trophy. I hope I get the chance to be in the final again. I will come back.”
How many Grand Slam titles will Linda Noskova win in her career?
She's the 2026 Wimbledon champion!
Noskova then followed Muchova in-front of the microphone, showing that the respect between the two players is mutual with her words after winning her first Grand Slam title.
“It feels incredible,” said Noskova. “Today and all these matches have been so much, physically and mentally. Today especially, it is never easy to get the last point. Karo you really made me work for it, I will not forgive you this one!
“But like you said we are friends. I am so glad that I could play my first Grand Slam final with you. I think we made history today. I believe that all our Czech fans at home are proud of us, so no matter the result, I think it was a good day for both of us.
“I want to congratulate your team and you especially. You have been such a fighter. A good two weeks for you and a great season as well, so congrats.”
Where will Linda Noskova and Karolina Muchova be ranked after the Wimbledon final?
Both Noskova and Muchova will be rewarded for their respective runs at Wimbledon this year in terms of their ranking.
Muchova will remain the Czech number one, and she will now climb three places in the rankings up to a new career-high of world number six.
Noskova made her top 10 debut after winning the Berlin Open title earlier in the grass court season, but she will now jump even higher.
After winning the Wimbledon title, Noskova will move to within one place of Muchova at world number seven.
Both players are also in strong positions to qualify for the WTA Finals, with Muchova fourth in the qualification, while Noskova is in seventh.
Noskova is all but qualified for the WTA Finals for the first time, as Grand Slam champions only need to be in the top 20 of the race if they are to make it.
