French Open 2018: Simona Halep Wins Her First Grand Slam Title After Beating Sloane Stephens

Simona Halep, the current world No 1, finally won her first Grand Slam title with a gutsy comeback victory over American 10th seed Sloane Stephens in this year’s French Open final.

The 26-year-old had lost in two previous French Open finals – to Maria Sharapova in 2014 and Jelena Ostapenko in 2017 – and against Caroline Wozniacki in this year’s Australian Open showpiece.

Simona Halep, went a set and a break down at Roland Garros.

However, the Romanian battled back to take a see-saw second set against the US Open champion.

Simona Halep then raced away with the third to win 3-6 6-4 6-1.

Image source WTA

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She said in the build-up to this match that she felt relaxed and would not be fazed by the pressure of winning her first Slam.

After the match, Simona Halep said: “I did everything I could. It is amazing what is happening now.

“I have been dreaming for this moment since I started playing tennis.”

Simona 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 Sloane Stephens walked around the net to warmly hug the champion.

Given a standing ovation by the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd, a tearful Simona Halep climbed into the stand behind the baseline to celebrate with her family and coaching team.