Fans turn out to celebrate Tunisian trailblazer Jabeur

Ons Jabeur may have missed out on the Wimbledon title but the trailblazing Tunisian was accorded a champion's reception on Friday as a crowd of hundreds celebrated the country's sporting pioneer.

While she ultimately succumbed in three sets to Elena Rybakina, her achievement at becoming the first Arab and African woman to reach a Grand Slam final has seen her popularity soar.

The 27-year-old is visibly enjoying the affection she is getting from her fellow Tunisians.

"Tunisians' love is more important than no matter which title. I hope this is the start of lots more wins. I'm proud to be a Tunisian," she said as women and children carried the national flag, with music played at maximum volume on loud speakers adorned with photos of Jabeur and tennis racquets.

And from a big grandstand in front of the capital's national theatre she spelled out her next career objective "to be world number one and win (the French Open) at Roland Garros".

Autographed tennis balls were being thrown into the crowd for those fans lucky enough to get their hands on them.

Friday's reception followed Thursday's presentation to Jabeur by President Kais Saied of the prestigious Grand Medal of the National Order of Merit.

She said she wanted to "give more hope" to the country's youngsters.

Since she began her climb up the WTA rankings to her present fifth in the world her club's membership has doubled to 700.