24-year-old Kyiv native Marta Kostyuk has rewritten the history of Ukrainian tennis, reaching the semifinals of the world’s oldest and most prestigious tournament, Wimbledon 2026, for the first time in her career.
A Sensational Victory Over Paolini
In a quarterfinal clash on the legendary Centre Court, the world number 13 Kostyuk delivered a masterclass, outclassing Italy's Jasmine Paolini (WTA No. 17) with a decisive 6:3, 6:2 victory.
Lasting just 1 hour and 9 minutes, the match was a tour de force for the Ukrainian. Kostyuk performed flawlessly from start to finish, leaving her opponent with no room to breathe. This marked the fourth career meeting between the two, and Marta secured her second win over the Italian.
A Dream Come True
"This is my first time playing on this incredible court, and it’s a dream come true. It’s always an amazing feeling to play on the biggest stage, put on a great show, and come away with a win. Thank you everyone for the support. It really means a lot to have the support of Wimbledon’s biggest court," Kostyuk said, reflecting on her historic victory.
In a touching moment, Marta revealed that she had only been to Wimbledon’s Centre Court once before—nine years ago, as a spectator watching Roger Federer. Now, she steps onto this hallowed grass herself as a tournament semifinalist!
Historical Context
Kostyuk has become only the second Ukrainian woman in history to reach the Wimbledon semifinals. Prior to her, only Elina Svitolina had achieved this feat, doing so in 2019 and 2023.
Notably, no Ukrainian woman has ever reached a Grand Slam final in women's singles. Now, Marta is just one step away from changing history forever.
Phenomenal Form in 2026
Wimbledon is the latest chapter in Kostyuk’s incredible 2026 season. This marks her second Grand Slam semifinal of the year, following her run at Roland Garros in June, where she fell to Mirra Andreeva.
Marta’s Statistics are Impressive:
- For the first time in her career, she has secured 10 main draw Grand Slam wins in a single calendar year (5 at Roland Garros and 5 at Wimbledon)
- 300 career winners at grass-court Majors
- Her 12th career WTA-level semifinal (with a 6-5 win-loss record) and her 5th in 2026 (3-1)
- This season, she claimed clay-court titles at the WTA 250 in Rouen and the WTA 1000 in Madrid
- Since the start of the clay season, she has amassed 21 wins in 22 matches
Semifinal Opponent
In her bid for a spot in the final, Kostyuk is set to face the Czech Republic’s Linda Noskova (WTA No. 13), who defeated Belgium's Elise Mertens 6:3, 7:5 in her quarterfinal match.
Interestingly, the two have met only once before—in the quarterfinals of the Madrid Open, where Kostyuk emerged victorious.
Path to the Final
The winner of the Kostyuk-Noskova match will face either world number 9 Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic or American Coco Gauff in the final.
The 2026 Wimbledon women's final will take place on Saturday, July 11.
An Emotional Triumph
Kostyuk’s progression to the Wimbledon semifinals is more than just a sporting achievement; it is a true triumph for Ukrainian tennis and a symbol of resilience and talent. Marta has proven that Ukrainian athletes can compete at the highest level, conquering the world's most prestigious stages.
Her journey from a young girl watching Federer from the Centre Court stands nine years ago to becoming a Wimbledon semifinalist is the story of a dream realized through talent, perseverance, and an boundless love for the game.
Bravo, Marta!
