Simona Halep Is Literally Living Her Mother’s Dream At Wimbledon

WIMBLEDON: With a resume featuring three grand slam finals played at three different events, Simona Halep means business at Wimbledon this year.

The former world No.1 dropped only four games during her comprehensive win over Elina Svitolina in the semi-finals on Thursday. Becoming the first woman from her country to reach the final of the grass-court major. Her third of the season after Doha and Madrid. A solid performance from a player who previously described 2019 as her ‘chill year.’

“Chilling’, it doesn’t mean that I’m not working hard or I’m not focused on what I have to do. It’s just that as a person I want to chill. We see that I’m better on the court.”Halep explained.

It is hard to dispute Halep’s mindset given her recent success at the grand slam. Where she is yet to play a top 20 player. The resurgence on the grass in recent years is something Halep links to adjustments in her game. She has reached the quarter-finals at Wimbledon in four out of the past six years. Furthermore, she has suffered fewer first round losses (two) at the tournament than any other major.

“I play some dropshots. I use the slice more. The serve is helping me.” She explained about her grass-court game.
“I said a few days ago, now when the ball is coming to me, I know what to do with it. Maybe that’s why. Maybe I feel confident and I’m not scared anymore of how the ball bounces.’
“I think I have the feeling. And also I feel stable on the legs, which is very important on the grass.”

According to IBM, who is the official data supplier at Wimbledon, the 27-year-old has won 62% of points at the net and 57% points played from the baseline during her first six matches. However, she has been broken nine times and at least once in every round played.

Halep’s breakthrough is one that delights those close to her. Especially her mother, who revealed something to her shortly after the semi-final.

“I talked to my mom after the match. About 10, 15 years ago she said her dream is to play the final in Wimbledon because everyone is here, the Royal Box.” Halep said.
“She said ‘I think it’s an unbelievable moment.’ So today her dream came true, I will play a final.”

To achieve the fairytale ending on Saturday the Romanian faces a tough task. Serena Williams will be standing in the way of the title. The American leads Halep 9-1 in their head-to-head but hasn’t played her on the grass since 2011.

Regardless of her record, Halep believes she has the ability to spoil the Williams party, who is targeting a 24th grand slam title. The two will lock horns on Saturday afternoon.

“I have learned that I have the chance. Now, if I face her, I will believe that I have my chance to win against her.” She explained.
“Of course, I respect a lot what she has done and what she’s doing.’
“But now I feel stronger mentally facing her. We will see what is going to happen. It’s just a big challenge for me.”

The head-to-head in detail