Ons Jabeur has been honored in her country following her strong Wimbledon run.
This past Wimbledon, 27-year-old Jabeur became the first Tunisian, Arab or African woman to reach a Grand Slam final.
Upon returning to Tunisia, Jabeur was awarded the Tunisian Order of Merit.
Jabeur has made a stunning rise over the last 12 months and she is now considered as one of the best players in the women’s game.
Wherever Jabeur goes, she proudly represents Tunisia and now her efforts have been recognized in her country.
Unfortunately for Jabeur, she fell just short of winning her maiden Grand Slam.
Jabeur was up by a set in the Wimbledon final but Elena Rybakina stormed back to win 3-6 6-2 6-2.
Jabeur wants to inspire Tunisian kids to play tennis
Jabeur has said several times that one of her goals is to inspire Arab kids to pick a racket and play tennis.
“We want to give more hope to the young people who watch us. We hope to continue this momentum. We are proud to be Tunisians and we will continue with this success story,” Jabeur said.
After losing to Rybakina in the Wimbledon final, Jabeur admitted on the court that she felt really sad.
Even though Jabeur was sad after losing the Wimbledon final, she refused to be negative and pessimistic.
Jabeur is 27 and she believes there will be many more chances for her to become a Grand Slam champion.
“I’m definitely positive about [holding the runners-up shield],” Jabeur said. “I’m very glad with my results. I don’t regret anything. I gave it all today. A final, I lose so many at the beginning, then step back and win one more. I don’t disbelieve in myself and I know that I’m going to come back and win a Grand Slam, for sure.”