9th June, 2018
Photo: BBC/Getty Image
World number one Simona Halep finally won her first Grand Slam title with a gutsy comeback victory over American 10th seed Sloane Stephens in the French Open final.
Halep, who had lost her three previous major finals, went a set and a break down at Roland Garros.
But the 26-year-old Romanian battled back to take a see-saw second set against the US Open champion.
She then raced away with the third to win 3-6 6-4 6-1, BBC reports.
“I did everything I could. It is amazing what is happening now,” Halep said.
“I have been dreaming for this moment since I started playing tennis.”
Halep clinched victory with her first match point, Stephens unable to return a powerful first serve.
The top seed dropped her racquet in celebration, covering her face with both hands before Stephens walked around the net to warmly hug the champion.
Given a standing ovation by the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd, a tearful Halep climbed into the stand behind the baseline to celebrate with her family and coaching team.