Wimbledon 2022 awards: the final word on the best and worst at SW19
Flying Djokovic, furious Kyrgios, Jabeur’s shotmaking and Tan’s defeat of Serena made for a memorable fortnight
Best shot Novak Djokovic’s sliding, open stance cross-court backhand passing shot winner against Jannik Sinner, which ended with him falling face down. He celebrated by lifting his arms and legs off the ground. Flying.
Best match Nick Kyrgios v Stefanos Tsitsipas. One of the most chaotic I’ve seen. Kyrgios tried to get Tsitsipas defaulted, Tsitsipas lost his head and spent a set trying to hit Kyrgios with the ball, two intense press conferences and, most importantly, quality tennis in an encounter that was tight until the end.
Biggest letdown After all of his efforts to be ready for Wimbledon, what a shame Rafael Nadal’s calendar grand slam bid was ended by an abdominal injury, which robbed him of the chance to face Kyrgios in the semi-finals. Matteo Berrettini catching Covid on the eve of the tournament was also extremely unfortunate.
Best story Ons Jabeur so nearly became the first Arab person and African woman to win a grand slam. Her achievements alone have been incredible, but they are so much more meaningful considering how well she has carried herself and how much of a pleasant person she is. Her press conference after her loss to Elena Rybakina is essential viewing for all tennis fans.
