Barbora Krejcikova, the reigning Wimbledon champion, is facing a potentially significant drop in the WTA rankings as she defends her title at the All England Club. Krejcikova, who surprised the world with her Wimbledon victory in 2024, is dealing with a combination of factors that could impact her ranking.
Ranking Implications
Krejcikova’s ranking had fallen outside the top 30 leading up to Wimbledon 2024, where she was seeded 31st. Despite this, she went on to win the tournament, defeating Jasmine Paolini in the final. Her Wimbledon victory propelled her back into the top 10, reaching the tenth position in the WTA rankings.
However, as she defends her title, the stakes are high. If Krejcikova fails to defend her title and loses her Wimbledon ranking points from 2024, she could plummet as low as 92nd in the WTA rankings. Even winning her opening round match would only see her climb to around 80th place.
Challenges and Setbacks
Several factors contribute to Krejcikova’s precarious position. She has battled injuries and struggled to find consistent form over the past year. Krejcikova has participated in only 10 tournaments in the past year, with just four events in 2025.
In a pre-tournament press conference, Krejcikova acknowledged the challenges she has faced but expressed optimism for a successful campaign. She faces immense pressure with 2,000 ranking points at stake, as an early exit from Wimbledon could drastically drop her world ranking.
Krejcikova’s Wimbledon 2024 Triumph
Barbora Krejcikova won the 2024 Wimbledon title by defeating Jasmine Paolini in a thrilling final. Krejcikova won the match 6-2, 2-6, 6-4, claiming her second Grand Slam singles title.
Krejcikova reflected on her unexpected victory, “It’s unbelievable…Just two weeks ago, I started here. I had a very tough first match, three hours and 15 minutes, winning 7-5 in the third set”. She had been dealing with injury and illness, making her victory even more improbable.
Krejcikova also paid tribute to her former mentor, Jana Novotna, the 1998 Wimbledon champion, who passed away in 2017. Krejcikova said, “Jana was the one that told me I had the potential and that I should definitely turn pro and just try to make it…Before she passed away she told me to go and win a Slam”.
2025 Wimbledon Campaign
As the reigning champion in 2025, Barbora Krejcikova began her title defense with a win over Alexandra Eala. After dropping the first set, Krejcikova fought back to win 3-6, 6-2, 6-1. Krejcikova, seeded 17th, displayed grit and determination to advance to the second round.
Krejcikova expressed her happiness to be back at Wimbledon, saying, “Six months ago, I was in a lot of pain in my back, and I really didn’t know how my career would go…I’m super happy to be here and to be able to play here…having the opportunity to see my name [on the winners’ board] and the trophy, it’s super special”.
Path Ahead
Barbora Krejcikova’s journey at Wimbledon 2025 promises to be a compelling story of resilience and determination. Despite the challenges and potential ranking drop, she remains optimistic about defending her title. Her performance at Wimbledon will be closely watched as she seeks to defy the odds and achieve greatness once again.
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