Ajla Tomljanovic is widely recognized for her triumph over Serena Williams’ retirement match in the US Open in 2022. Recently, she added another chapter to her tennis journey by securing her first title in over a decade. This significant victory came at the WTA 125 MundoTenis Open in Brazil, where Tomljanovic defeated Argentine Martina Capurro Taborda in straight sets with a scoreline of 6-1, 7-5 to lift the coveted title.
However, what truly captivated the tennis world and social media was the unique trophy she received for her achievement. The trophy featured an endearing blue cat, proudly clutching a tennis racket. Images of Tomljanovic posing with this distinctive trophy quickly went viral, prompting the Tennis Channel to showcase it on social media with the caption, “What’s the most unique trophy in tennis?”
What’s the most unique trophy in tennis? 👇 pic.twitter.com/uADAyxHubk
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) November 27, 2023
The response from fans was even more enthusiastic, with one admirer expressing, “That’s adorable.” Another tennis fan was eager to delve into the backstory of this ultra-unique trophy, and one user boldly declared it the “Best trophy of 2023.”
That’s adorable.
— FloridaDame 🟦 (@Fantine21) November 27, 2023
I need the backstory https://t.co/SJKNcRNNBQ
— Blair Henley (@BlairHenley) November 27, 2023
Best trophy of 2023? 🐱🏆@TennisAustralia pic.twitter.com/NaBbwAAUZ1
— UTR Sports (@UTR_Sports_) November 27, 2023
It’s noteworthy that Tomljanovic’s journey was not without challenges. Having faced injury setbacks throughout the 2023 season, her triumph at the MundoTenis Open held a special significance for her. Tomljanovic, visibly elated with her season-ending win and the “cool trophy” she received, expressed her gratitude for the warmth and love she experienced in Brazil.
Will Ajla Tomljanovic make it to the Australian Open in 2024?
As anticipation builds for the Australian Open 2024, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Ajla will be making a return to the Grand Slam after an injury-plagued 2023 season. The Australian tennis star, who recently overcame another period of injury-induced hiatus, is back on the court and preparing for her home Grand Slam.
Her victory at the recently concluded WTA 125 tournament in Brazil signals a promising return to form and a healthy status. However, Tomljanovic missed almost eight months of the current season, leading to a significant drop in her singles ranking, which had plummeted to 282 in the world.
The injury issues Tomljanovic faced in 2023 led to her withdrawal from major tournaments, including the Australian Open for knee surgery and the US Open due to an arm injury, which undoubtedly impacted her standings. Despite the setbacks, Tomljanovic holds a protected ranking of world no. 33 because of her long injury layoff.
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This gives her the advantage of securing entry into the Australian Open main draw, where the top 128 players in the world will be competing. Securing a win at the WTA 125 event not only ended her nine-match losing streak in finals since 2013 but also provided a substantial boost before the start of the new season and her home Grand Slam, the Australian Open.
