TENNIS history was made – but not the sort Serena Williams was hoping for.
Garbine Muguruza became the first Spanish woman to win the singles in Paris since the great Arantxa Sanchez Vicario claimed her third crown in 1998.
And so Williams’ wait for the 22nd Grand Slam title which would put her level with Open Era record-holder Steffi Graf will go on until at least Wimbledon.
Muguruza outmuscled the most dominant player the women’s game has even known to earn what many believe will be the first of many big prizes.
And for the third Slam in a row, a new name was added to the roll of honour.
Williams was not at her best, but Muguruza won this rather than the American losing it.
Her 7-5 6-4 victory was the reward for her bravery and willingness to take on her illustrious rival in a big-hitting contest.
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When Williams retrieved an early break and moved 5-4 ahead in the first set, the pressure was on the Spaniard.
But she responded brilliantly and saved two breaks points in the 12th game before claiming the opener.
Muguruza broke at the start of the second, was pegged back but then just broke again, maintaining her aggression and being let down only by untimely double faults.
Great champion that she is, Williams saved four championship points at 3-5 down.
But Muguruza had never taken a backward step and served it out to love, finishing with an amazing defensive lob which dropped on the line.
No4 seed Muguruza said: “This is THE tournament in Spain, because it is on clay. I’m so so excited.
“To play a final against one of the best players, it’s the perfect final. I’m so happy. I tried to fight as hard as I could.”
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