LONDON: Spain’s Garbine Muguruza demolished Venus Williams in the second set to win a first Wimbledon women’s 7-5, 6-0.

Venezuela-born Muguruza defied two set points in the opening set to win nine games in a row as 37-year-old Williams crumpled under a relentless barrage of brilliant hitting.

The 23-year-old — who lost to Williams’s sister Serena in the final two years ago — won in one hour and 17 minutes, dropping to her knees in tears when an incorrect challenge from Williams sealed her second Grand Slam title.

Muguruza, who won the French Open last year, said afterwards: “It was definitely the hardest match today. I grew up watching Venus play, so it’s incredible to play the final. It feels incredible to play her here.

“Inside of course, I was nervous. I always dreamed to be here. I was composed I guess. [The first set was] very tough, we both had a lot of chances.

“Two years ago I lost to Serena and she told me one day I would win and here I am.”

At 37, Williams was aiming to become the oldest women to win a Grand Slam in the Open Era and she suggested she was not finished yet, saying afterwards. “I miss you Serena. I tried to do the same things you do but I think they’ll be other opportunities, I really do.

“Congratulations Garbine. Amazing. I know how hard you work and I’m sure it means so much to you and your family. Well done today, beautiful.”

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