Without a doubt, Karolina Muchova has had the greatest 2 weeks of her professional career at this year’s French Open. If one has to name one breakout performer from Roland Garros 2023, the 26-year-old Czech would probably be the answer. Her dream run at the event finally ended when she was defeated by world number 1 Iga Swiatek in the all-important finals. But she didn’t go down without a fight – Swiatek had to dig deep and earn a hard-fought 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 victory against a determined Muchova.
After the heartbreaking defeat, an emotional Muchova was reduced to tears during the trophy presentation ceremony. However, a certain 18-time grand slam champion Chris Evert was there right beside her to provide a shoulder.
Chris Evert comforts Karolina Muchova after French Open final heartbreak
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Iga Swiatek emerged victorious in the women’s singles final, winning her 3rd Roland Garros and 4th major title overall. But inarguably, Muchova won a lot of fans and proved her mettle as a player of outstanding caliber. During her runner-up speech at the presentation ceremony, she couldn’t hold back her emotions. As a tearful Muchova struggled to carry on with her speech, the women’s singles trophy presenter of French Open 2023, American legend Chris Evert, was there to comfort the 26-year-old.
On being asked what the legendary American’s consoling words to her were during the post-match press conference, Muchova was all but praises for the 7-time Roland Garros winner. “She said really kind words to me. I probably will not even say. I don’t know if she would want me to tell it to you, so I’ll keep that for myself”, she said.
Karolina Muchova was asked what Chris Evert told her before the trophy ceremony at Roland Garros:
“She said really kind words to me. I probably will not even say. I don’t know if she would want me to tell it to you, so I’ll keep that for myself.” pic.twitter.com/iSXsJRNGR1
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 11, 2023
Karolina Muchova and Iga Swiatek gifted us with a thrilling, high-quality match, truly worthy of a grand slam final. Although Muchova couldn’t have the final laugh, she can be proud of her incredible run at the French Open. With the legendary Chris Evert comforting her after her loss, she can surely keep her held high and look forward to the rest of the season.
Muchova’s inspirational journey to Roland Garros success
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Karolina Muchova surprised the tennis world with a string of impressive victories at the French Open. On her way to the final, she managed to beat top players like Maria Sakkari and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. She orchestrated the upset of the tournament when she got the better of second-seeded Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals. However, to reach this level, she had to overcome a lot of obstacles.
Numerous injuries and fitness concerns derailed her campaign in the 2022 season. She was forced to retire from her 3rd round French Open encounter last year due to an ankle injury. Doctors even advised her to retire from professional tennis altogether owing to her serious medical conditions. But, her will, determination and positivity helped her overcome all the hardships and propel to her to the position she is in today.
Finally, Muchova was able to show her abilities on the court and grab the attention of the tennis world, all thanks to her French Open heroics. It certainly feels like Karolina Muchova’s time to shine as we look forward to the rest of the season.
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WATCH THIS STORY: “You Will Not Do Sport Anymore”- Heading Into the French Open Final, Karolina Muchova Shares Disheartening Memory From the Past