Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur has surprised some fans and analysts with her level at SW19 this year. However, a video from the start of the season shows the Tunisian always believed a great run at Wimbledon was possible.
Jabeur defeated her close friend Tatjana Maria in three sets to reach her maiden Grand Slam final. Maria making the final would have been an even bigger shock, but Jabeur ensured that did not happen.
The 27-year-old easily won her first four rounds at the 2022 Wimbledon Championships. She dropped the opening set in her quarterfinal against Marie Bouzkova but stormed back by claiming the final two sets 1-6, 1-6.
Jabeur will play Elena Rybakina in the final on Saturday. To win, Jabeur must handle Rybakina's huge serve, which is one of the best in women's tennis and particularly potent on grass.
Although overcoming Rybakina will be a tough challenge, Jabeur does not lack confidence. Her prediction in January ahead of the new season perfectly demonstrates that.
The WTA interviewed some of the players in January on various topics. All the players were asked to give a prediction for themselves for 2022, and Jabeur's answer was notable at the time and even more so now.
The Tunisian predicted she would win Wimbledon. She admitted it was a bold prediction to make immediately after saying it.
"I'm gonna win Wimbledon. Bold, huh?"
Jabeur has undoubtedly backed up her confident words so far. Her outstanding level since the first round means she is just one victory away from making that prediction a reality.
She will hope her variety and complete style are enough to overcome Rybakina on Saturday. Jabeur has made herself a crowd favorite in London with her watchable brand of tennis and will receive a lot of support from the crowd.