Few players arrive at a tournament expecting to lift the trophy after failing to qualify for the main draw. Yet that is exactly what Donna Vekic achieved at Queen’s Club, capping off one of the most extraordinary stories of the grass-court season with a hard-fought 6-0, 7-6(6) victory over Britain’s Emma Raducanu in Sunday’s final.
The Croatian, who entered the tournament as a lucky loser following a defeat in qualifying, produced a week of outstanding tennis to claim the prestigious title and announce herself as a serious contender heading into Wimbledon. In front of a sold-out crowd that overwhelmingly backed Raducanu, Vekic displayed resilience, power, and composure to secure her first WTA title since 2023.
The triumph was particularly significant given the history of the event. Queen’s Club returned to the women’s professional calendar this season for the first time in more than five decades, making Vekic the first woman to lift the trophy in the modern era. The victory also provided another major milestone in what has been a resurgence for the Croatian after reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals and winning a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in recent years.
For Raducanu, the defeat ended an impressive week that had reignited excitement among British tennis fans. The former US Open champion entered the final having produced some of her best tennis on grass since her breakthrough triumph in New York in 2021. Victories over several higher-ranked opponents had raised hopes that she could become the first British woman to win the title on home soil.
From the opening game, the Croatian was in complete control. Striking the ball cleanly from both wings, she unleashed a barrage of winners that left Raducanu struggling to find answers. Her aggressive approach paid immediate dividends as she raced through the opening set in just 24 minutes, handing the Briton a rare 6-0 defeat.
The first set reflected Vekic’s confidence throughout the week. She consistently attacked Raducanu’s second serve, dominated baseline exchanges, and dictated play with her powerful forehand. The Croatian appeared determined to finish points quickly and deny the home favourite any opportunity to settle into the match.
Despite the difficult start, Raducanu refused to surrender. The 23-year-old showed tremendous character in the second set, gradually finding her rhythm and improving her first-serve percentage. As the rallies lengthened, she began to move Vekic around the court more effectively and forced the Croatian into errors.
The momentum shifted dramatically when Raducanu secured a double break and moved ahead 5-2. With the crowd fully behind her, it seemed the match was heading toward a deciding set. The British star was suddenly playing with greater freedom, while Vekic’s previously flawless game began to show signs of tension.
Yet championship matches are often decided by how players respond under pressure, and Vekic delivered exactly when it mattered most.
The Croatian dug deep to break back and halt Raducanu’s charge. She steadily clawed her way back into the contest and eventually levelled the set at 5-5. Raducanu earned a set point while serving at 5-4, but Vekic remained composed and produced some of her best tennis to stay alive.
As the match entered its decisive phase, both players appeared physically drained after several demanding rallies in warm conditions. Nevertheless, neither was willing to give an inch. Vekic earned three championship points at 6-5 but was unable to convert. Raducanu continued to fight, saving each one and forcing a tense tiebreak that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.
The drama continued in the breaker. Raducanu saved a fourth match point and threatened to extend the contest further. However, Vekic finally found the breakthrough she had been searching for. On her fifth championship point, Raducanu pushed a forehand wide, bringing an end to a gripping battle and sparking emotional celebrations from the Croatian.
The victory represents a significant confidence boost for Vekic ahead of Wimbledon, where she will be hoping to build on her previous deep runs at the All England Club. Her powerful game has always suited grass courts, and her performances at Queen’s Club suggest she could once again challenge the sport’s elite during the Grand Slam season.
For Raducanu, despite the disappointment of defeat, the tournament offered plenty of positives. Reaching the final demonstrated the progress she has made following a difficult period marked by injuries and inconsistency. Her movement, shot-making, and resilience throughout the week provided encouraging signs as she prepares for Wimbledon.
Ultimately, however, the day belonged to Donna Vekic. From qualifying disappointment to championship glory, her journey at Queen’s Club was a reminder of tennis’ unpredictability and the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities. What began as a second chance ended with a trophy, a memorable title run, and one of the standout stories of the 2026 grass-court season.
