Ajla Tomljanovic played some wonderful tennis at the 2024 Birmingham Classic to make the final, but unfortunately, she didn't win the trophy.
The Australian has been around for many years now, with many great results, but unfortunately, no trophies on the WTA Tour to date. She had a chance to win her maiden title this week in Birmingham after playing some amazing tennis all week long, but unfortunately, she wasn't able to.
Only recently, Tomljanovic returned to competing in Parma, after she was away from the sport for four months. Only in her third event back, she reached the final, ultimately losing to Yulia Putintseva, 1-6, 6-7(8).
Speaking after the match was very emotional for her because she admitted that losing a final is never easy, but she congratulated her opponent on an amazing week and the trophy.
"It’s never easy losing in a final. I tried my best today. Yulia you had an amazing week. You lost only one set. Your first title on grass… congratulations & best of luck at Wimbledon."
Birmingham is a familiar place for Tomljanovic because she's been coming back for many years. It's been 14 years since she first came to the event, and ever since then, the crowd has consistently backed her, including in the final match this year. Following the final, she also thanked the crowd for the amazing support they gave her over the years.
"You guys have been amazing. The attendance at the event has always been through the roof. When you haven’t played for a while you really notice these things. We really appreciate it as players."
Failing to win the trophy was upsetting for Tomljanovic, but after dealing with many injuries in recent years, the Australian is just happy to be back on the courts. Making a final is a great achievement, and it's a step in the right direction.