American tennis player Emma Navarro has emerged as a contender for the women’s title at the All England Club, defeating defending Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova in the third round on Saturday. The 24-year-old from New York overcame a set down to win 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 and became the latest first-time winner of the grass-court major.
Navarro’s victory was marked by her resilience and determination, as she regrouped in the second set and turned the match around. The American used her slice effectively to make Krejcikova uncomfortable, finishing with just 11 unforced errors to the Czech’s 53.
The win marks Navarro’s third consecutive one-and-done appearance at Wimbledon, a feat tied by Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff. She will face 18-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva in Monday’s quarterfinals.
Navarro’s victory also highlights her growing talent and experience on the biggest stage. The former NCAA champion has eliminated top players, including Coco Gauff at Wimbledon last year, and is on track to make a deep run in this year’s tournament.
With Krejcikova’s loss, Iga Swiatek is now the only major champion remaining in the bottom half of the draw. Whoever wins the women’s title will continue a remarkable streak of nine consecutive champions in the grass-court Grand Slam tournament.
Source: https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/45676986/american-emma-navarro-beats-defending-wimbledon-champion-barbora-krejcikova-third-round