Steffi Graf Reflects on Jana Novotná’s Bravery After Losing Australian Open Record: ‘She Was Fearless’
Tennis legend Steffi Graf has long been regarded as one of the greatest players to ever grace the sport. However, even the most dominant athletes experience setbacks, and for Graf, one of her most painful defeats came at the hands of the late Jana Novotná. Recently, as Novotná’s achievement of breaking Graf’s Australian Open record came back into focus, the German icon paid tribute to her former opponent, describing her as “brave” and “fearless.”
Graf, who once held an Australian Open streak that seemed untouchable, saw her record eclipsed by Novotná in a match that she now remembers as the worst defeat of her career. Reflecting on that moment, Graf admitted that she had underestimated Novotná’s sheer determination and the passion with which she played.
“She was so brave,” Graf said. “Jana wasn’t even scared to face me. She played like she had nothing to lose, and maybe that’s why she won. I still wonder what was going through her mind when we met that day on the court. There was a passion in her eyes that I’ll never forget.”
Novotná, known for her attacking serve-and-volley style, was one of the few players who consistently pushed Graf to her limits. The Czech star’s ability to adapt and her unwavering tenacity ultimately proved decisive in their fateful encounter.
“When I think about that match now, it reminds me of how much fight she had,” Graf continued. “Losing to her that day was painful, but looking back, I can only respect and admire the way she played. She didn’t just win a match—she made a statement.”
Beyond the court, Graf expressed admiration for Novotná’s character and resilience, both in tennis and in life. Following her tragic passing in 2017 after a battle with cancer, Novotná was remembered by many in the tennis community for her warmth, humility, and sportsmanship.
“She was a fighter in every sense,” Graf said. “On the court, she was fierce. Off the court, she was kind, generous, and always smiling. It’s hard to believe she’s gone, but her legacy will always remain.”
Graf’s tribute serves as a reminder of the deep respect shared among tennis greats, even in moments of rivalry. While records may be broken, the spirit and determination that players like Novotná brought to the game are what truly define their legacy. And for Graf, that loss—painful as it was—became one of the most unforgettable lessons of her career.
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