Tatjana Maria completed a remarkable fairytale at Queen’s Club by becoming the oldest WTA 500 champion in history at age 37. Just over a week before, the German veteran was mired in a slump, having lost nine consecutive matches. Even a return to grass, her most successful surface, didn’t spark a turnaround she was defeated in straight sets by a player ranked outside the top 200 in her previous outing. Yet against all odds, Maria powered through seven matches as a qualifier to claim the title.
In the final, she overcame Amanda Anisimova, the eighth seed and world No 15, with a 6-3, 6-4 victory. It marked the biggest title of Maria’s long career and a rare moment of triumph for a player many had written off. In the process, she defeated four consecutive top-20 opponents, including major champions and heavy hitters, showcasing not just resilience but masterful tactical execution.
Maria’s style stands out in a power-dominated era. While most players thrive on pace, she thrives on taking it away. Her unique approach, built on precision slices off both wings, kept her higher-ranked opponents off balance. On grass, where low bounces amplify her tactics, her shots skidded and forced her rivals to adjust to uncomfortable heights and rhythms. Against Anisimova, she exposed her opponent’s lack of adaptability, drawing frequent errors and disrupting any consistent momentum.
Despite being ranked 86th, Maria’s deep grass-court pedigree was on full display. A Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2022, she used her experience, net skills, and strategic mind to dismantle more powerful players with smarter tennis. Her serve and movement also played a crucial role throughout her Queen’s Club campaign, helping her weather pressure moments and close out tight sets.
After her win, Maria rushed to celebrate with her family, embracing her husband and coach, as well as their two daughters, including 11-year-old Charlotte. A touching long-term goal now motivates her: to one day play professional doubles with Charlotte. With eligibility to compete starting at 14, Maria is hoping her body will hold up for a few more years to make that dream come true.
Maria’s win also capped a successful debut for women’s tennis at Queen’s Club after a 52-year absence. The event drew strong attendance, with over 60,000 fans across the week, and received extensive coverage. It also won praise from players and stakeholders alike, suggesting it has the foundation to become a regular highlight on the women’s tour.
