Wimbledon would be the last singles tournament for 36-year-old Flipkens, but of course she wanted to postpone that farewell as long as possible. In the first round that worked, but dealing with Simona Halep (WTA-18) would not be easy.
Still, Flipkens was very motivated on the track. She seemed to be enjoying herself wonderfully and went on to 2-5. So the set seemed to be up for grabs, but suddenly Halep, the winner from 2019, woke up with a start. She took five games in a row and won the set.
A blow for Flipkens, but in set two our compatriot started strong again. She had to fight for her first serve game, but then she went straight through Halep’s serve. It was 1-4 for Flipkens and she clenched her fist, but again Halep found a second breath.
The former number 1 in the world steamed on to a 6-4 set win and thus ended Flipkens’ single career. A warm embrace followed at the net and Flipkens also had to shed a tear. She kissed the grass and got a standing ovation from the crowd.
Flipkens has a special bond with the tournament. She recorded her best result ever at a Grand Slam tournament at the All England Club. In 2013, she only went out in the semifinals.
Flipkens also got an interview on court at her farewell. “I’m really happy and grateful to be able to say goodbye here,” she said. “The emotions overtake me.”
“That I can finish my single career here with a match against a champion like Simona on such a court and with this audience, that’s just a dream.”
“When I first came to Wimbledon, Kim Clijsters was working here as a junior. Then I said to myself that I would like to play here someday. In 2003 I took the overall victory as a junior. And in 2013 I was semi-finalist. Wimbledon will always be special to me.”
“And now? After my doubles tournament I will probably go on holiday in Ibiza”, she concluded with a smile.
