Krejcikova Pays Tribute to Inspiration Novotna After Wimbledon Triumph

Barbora Krejcikova has paid tribute to her late mentor and friend Jana Novotna after winning the Wimbledon title. The memory of Novotna, the 1998 Wimbledon champion, has been ever-present during Krejcikova's run to the title. The Czech player said she felt like Novotna was with her on the court, helping her to victory. "I felt her presence today," Krejcikova said. "I was talking to her in my head, saying, 'Come on, Jana, let's do this together.'" Novotna died of cancer in 2017 at the age of 49. She was a close friend and mentor to Krejcikova, and the Czech player has said that she often thinks of Novotna when she is playing.

Krejcikova's victory is a fitting tribute to Novotna, who was one of the most successful Czech players of all time. Novotna won 17 WTA singles titles and reached the Wimbledon final twice, winning in 1998. She was also a key member of the Czech team that won the Fed Cup in 1988 and 1995. Krejcikova's victory is a reminder of Novotna's legacy and the impact she had on the game of tennis.