Tennis fans and commentators are heaping praise on Karolina Muchova after a brave and classy runner-up speech after losing to Linda Noskova in the Wimbledon women’s final. And a cheeky moment in which she referred to Noskova as her “ex-friend” has endeared Muchova with viewers.
Noskova won her first career grand slam title with a 6-2 5-7 6-3 triumph over fellow Czech player and good friend Muchova. She became the third winner from her country in the last four years, joining Barbora Krejcikova and Marketa Vondrousova.
Karolina Muchova was classy in defeat after losing the Wimbledon final to Linda Noskova. Image: Getty/Wimbledon
Muchova was shattered after the loss and struggled to hold back tears during an on-court interview. But she won over the tennis world with a brilliant runner-up speech.
“I’ll start with Linda, my ex friend,” she joked to much laughter from the Centre Court crowd. “I’m kidding obviously, kind of. You’re so young. This was your first final of a slam.
“The way you handled it and how you played was really unbelievable. Beyond this all you’re especially a very kind person and human being. Congratulations to you and your team. You deserve it.”
Noskova was equally as classy, telling Muchova: “I’m so glad I could play my first grand slam final with you. I think we made history today. I believe that all our Czech fans at home are proud of us, so no matter the result today, I think it was a good day for us.”
Linda Noskova celebrates with the Venus Rosewater Dish after winning Wimbledon.
Tennis world praises Wimbledon runner-up
Noskova also shed tears as she paid tribute to her late mother Ivana, who died on the eve of Wimbledon in 2024 after a long battle with cancer. “I definitely would not be standing here without her, so thank you,” said the 21-year-old before blowing a kiss to the sky.
One person wrote on social media: “Karolina just set the standard for graceful runner-up speeches. What a final.” Another commented: “Tears, humour, and pure class in defeat. This is why we love tennis. Muchova you’ll be back stronger.”
A third wrote: “Bravo Karolina. Absolutely great speech! We are so proud of both of you!” While a fourth added: “Well said Karolina. A classy and gracious speech by Karolina even though she must have been gutted by the result. She’s win a slam soon.”
