World number seven Marion Bartoli admits it was a dream come true to secure title at Wimbledon after beating Sabine Lisicki 6-1, 6-4 on Saturday.
Bartoli has edged up the world rankings from 15th into seventh on the back of her victory, demonstrating some real power and quality to defeat Lisicki.
The German was expected to put up more of a fight against the 28-year-old after beating defending champion Serena Williams and Agnieszka Radwanska on route to the final.
However, it was Bartoli who most deserved the title on the day after starting strongly and never easing off on the 23-year-old.
The 2007 Wimbledon finalist – who lost to Venus Williams on that occasion – revealed in the build-up to the showpiece on Centre Court that she had overcome a number of problems throughout her life to reach this point and her determination would take her all the way.
Although reluctant to divulge the details of her private life she did admit that she had dreamt of winning at SW19 since she was six-years-old.
Bartoli said: “I have dreamt about this for so long. I was there in
2007 and missed it so I know how Sabine feels and I am sure Sabine will be there in the future.
“It was so nice to win Wimbledon and I don’t think in my wildest dreams I could win it with an ace so that was very special. I have been practicing my serve for so long so it is good that I saved it for the best moment.
“Just holding the trophy is amazing and it is a dream come true. I am so happy, it has been my dream since I was six. I also want to thank the crowd and I hope to be back again next year.”
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