Markéta Vondroušová has once again proven her resilience and skill by claiming the Berlin Open title on Sunday, June 22, 2025, in a thrilling three-set battle against Chinese qualifier Wang Xinyu. The 25-year-old Czech, a former Wimbledon champion, secured a hard-fought 7-6 (12-10), 4-6, 6-2 victory, marking her first tournament win since her stunning Wimbledon triumph in 2023 and only the third title of her professional career.
Vondroušová’s journey to this victory has been anything but straightforward. After an injury-plagued year that saw her drop to world number 164 following surgery on her left shoulder, many wondered if she could return to her previous form. Yet, standing on the Steffi Graf Stadium court in Berlin, she showcased the grit and determination that first made headlines two years ago when she became the first unseeded woman to win Wimbledon.
The final against Wang was a gripping contest, with both players displaying remarkable tenacity and athleticism. Vondroušová found herself a break down early in the opening set but fought back to level at 5-5. The tension escalated into a nail-biting tiebreak, where Wang initially surged ahead, earning six set points. However, Vondroušová’s composure shone through as she saved every one of them, eventually clinching the set 7-6 with a 12-10 score in the breaker.
Wang, 23, who was making her first WTA Tour final appearance after a remarkable run through the qualifiers, refused to back down. She rallied in the second set, breaking Vondroušová’s serve once to take it 6-4, leveling the match. The young Chinese player had already made waves by defeating several top-ranked opponents, including second seed Coco Gauff in the last 16 and former champion Liudmila Samsonova in the semifinals. Wang’s performance at the Berlin Open was a testament to her growing prowess, especially considering she had only ten wins this year before the tournament.
Despite Wang’s spirited fightback, Vondroušová regained control in the decider, breaking Wang’s serve twice to surge ahead 4-1. Demonstrating a blend of tactical precision and aggressive shot-making, the Czech closed out the match with a flawless service game at 5-2. Her matchpoint was a masterclass in finesse and power, featuring a superb dropshot, a crosscourt backhand winner, and a powerful forehand that forced an error from Wang.
Reflecting on her victory, Vondroušová expressed heartfelt gratitude towards her team and supporters. “We were all working really hard to get me back and I felt like, you know, we came here to try to win the first match and now this is happening. So I’m just very grateful to be standing here and very grateful for you guys,” she said, highlighting the collective effort behind her comeback.
This win is especially significant as it comes just a week before Wimbledon, the prestigious grass-court Grand Slam where Vondroušová will be looking to defend her title. Her performance in Berlin, which included a semifinal victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka with a commanding 6-2, 6-4 scoreline, signals that she is in formidable form heading into the tournament starting June 30.
Vondroušová’s road to the Berlin title was marked by several notable victories. She dispatched Australian Open champion Madison Keys in the first round and toppled Sabalenka in the semifinals, showcasing a level of play that belies her ranking. Her ability to seize five of six break points in the final further underscored her tactical acumen and mental toughness.
On the other side, Wang’s journey to the final was nothing short of extraordinary. After battling through the qualifying rounds, she played seven matches in nine days, displaying remarkable endurance and consistency. Her victories over established stars like Daria Kasatkina, Coco Gauff, and Paula Badosa highlighted her potential to become a serious contender on the WTA Tour.
Wang’s composure in her maiden final was impressive, especially considering her previous struggles in semifinals, having lost six prior to this breakthrough run. “It’s been an unbelievable week for us. And I just, we keep on building and looking forward for the next one,” Wang remarked, signaling her ambition and positive outlook despite the loss.
The Berlin Open final was also a test of physical resilience. During the match, Vondroušová slipped and injured her ankle while being broken in the seventh game of the first set, yet she managed to recover and maintain her focus. This moment epitomized the challenging nature of the contest and the determination both players exhibited.
With the Berlin Open title secured, Vondroušová’s confidence is undoubtedly boosted as she heads into Wimbledon. Her victory not only marks a remarkable comeback but also serves as a warning to her competitors that she remains a force to be reckoned with on grass courts. As the defending champion, she will be eager to replicate her success from two years ago and add another chapter to her burgeoning career.
Meanwhile, Wang’s breakthrough performance in Berlin will surely elevate her status in the tennis world. Her ability to challenge top-ranked players and reach the final of a significant tournament suggests that she could be a rising star to watch in the coming seasons.
In a week filled with anticipation for Wimbledon, the Berlin Open finale provided a perfect prelude, delivering drama, skill, and the promise of exciting tennis ahead. Vondroušová’s triumph after overcoming injuries and ranking setbacks is a testament to her resilience, while Wang’s impressive run underscores the depth of talent emerging on the women’s tour.
As the tennis world turns its attention to London, both players will carry valuable lessons and momentum from Berlin. For Vondroušová, the victory is a reaffirmation of her elite status and a stepping stone toward further glory. For Wang, it is the beginning of what could be a remarkable ascent in professional tennis.
