Sofia Kenin was crowned the new Australian Open champion after her three sets victory over Garbine Muguruza. The first time Grand Slam finalist wrapped the game up in 2 hours 3 minutes to beat her opponent 4-6, 6-2, 6-2.

Muguruza went into the clash as the favourite, despite being unseeded. The reason behind that was simple, she had already won two Grand Slams. She had the experience and know-how of winning multiple slams.

But Kenin had other plans in mind.

The opening set went Muguruza’s way and she looked in control of the match. Backed into a corner, Kenin drew on her mental strength to fight back and level the match.

Soon into the deciding set, it became clear that Sofia was the one dictating the terms of the match. Of course, Muguruza’s slew of unforced errors did her no favours.

Sofia Kenin thanks Kim Clijsters

Kenin was in a celebratory mood as she walked in to attend her post-match press conference.  Her jubilance knew no bounds as she answered questions while sipping some champagne.

Similar to the match, the press conference was a treat for the fans as well. There was one particular exchange between Kenin and a journalist that was a joy to witness.

The journalist in question recalled an old video of Kenin being shown around the Miami Open by a ‘motherly’ Kim Clijsters.

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He goes on to ask her how she went from there to rising through the ranks, beating Serena Williams and, finally, get to this point.

The journalist also asked her what she would like to say to Kim now.

Her answer was simple.

“I did it with all the belief that I had and all the efforts that I have done(sic) to get to where I am right now. And to Kim I just wanna say thank you so much for that day. For spending time with me, taking time off. I know she had a busy schedule, but she took time off and gave me some great words of wisdom and said some really great things about me and showed me around.”

“It was an exciting moment for me and I hope I can do that for someone else in the future. I would love to, I know what it felt like I have been there.”

Current and former players tweet their congratulations

Kenin goes on to add that she was thankful to those who tweeted congratulating her. We have them right here for you to see.

Bianca Andreescu too congratulated Kenin. It looks like the two ladies are looking forward to an amicable rivalry for many years ahead.

And finally, the legend Billie Jean King herself tweeted out to congratulate the newest Grand Slam champion.

Sofia Kenin looks set to continue rising through the women’s ranks and she clearly has many fans already. A worthy champion indeed.