Author: Barkha Roy
Barbora Strycova and Hsieh Su-wei, both 37, won their second Wimbledon women’s doubles title together in a nostalgic victory at the All England Club. The pair, who had won their first Wimbledon title in 2019, defeated third seeds Elise Mertens and Storm Hunter in a thrilling final on Centre Court with a score of 7-5, 6-4 under the roof.
For Hsieh, this was her fourth Wimbledon doubles title, having previously won with Belgium’s Mertens in 2021 and with China’s Peng Shuai in 2013. The match was very tight, with both pairs struggling to hold serve at the start. However, Hsieh and Strycova managed to secure a decisive break to win the opening set.
Experience comes out on top!
37-year-olds Su-Wei Hsieh and Barbora Strycova are the Ladies’ Doubles champions after coming past Storm Hunter and Elise Mertens in the final#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/MsOxrNipIT
– Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
In the second set, there was an exchange of breaks before Hsieh and Strycova broke their opponents once again at 5-4. The victory was sealed with Hsieh hitting an incredible backhand on the second championship point, leading to an emotional celebration on Centre Court.
For Strycova, this Wimbledon final had a special meaning, as it marked the farewell match of her career at the prestigious tournament. Wimbledon has always been her favorite Grand Slam and has been the stage for many significant milestones for her. Her big debut was at Wimbledon in 2003, and in 2014 she reached the quarter-finals of the first Slam. However, his most memorable run was in 2019, when he reached his first Slam singles semi-final and won the doubles title with Hsieh.
After a brief retirement, Strycova returned to the tour in April, once again teaming up with Hsieh. The duo’s chemistry and familiarity with the 2019 triumph were vital to winning the Wimbledon title.
“I couldn’t ask for a better finish”
2023 Ladies’ Doubles winner @BaraStrycova is ending her #Wimbledon career on a high 👏 pic.twitter.com/dDE0HDX55Y
– Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 16, 2023
Throughout the tournament, Strycova experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, and Sunday morning was no exception. But as she entered the court for the final, she was remarkably focused, describing herself as being “in beast mode”. With little Vincent, her son, cheering in a nearby house with his grandmother, Strycova was determined to do her best.
In a fitting end to their illustrious career, Strycova and Hsieh were able to secure their 10th team title and their 32nd individual doubles title overall. The victory brought pure joy and happiness to both players, and Strycova was particularly emotional during her post-match speech.
Despite her success, Strycova remains firm in her decision to retire after the US Open. She recognizes the challenges of being a mother and a professional athlete and firmly defends her choice. As for the possibility of playing in the WTA Finals, Strycova isn’t sure, stressing that she thinks her decision to retire is the right one.
In the end, the Wimbledon women’s doubles final was a testament to the remarkable partnership between Strycova and Hsieh, culminating in a memorable victory and a fine farewell for the Czech player at her beloved Grand Slam tournament.