Mertens & Zhang to Face Danilina & Krunic in Australian Open Final Clash

The Australian Open women’s doubles final is approaching, featuring an exciting clash between Elise Mertens and Zhang Shuai against Anna Danilina and Aleksandra Krunic. As the No. 4 seeds, Mertens and Zhang look to secure their first major title together, while the No. 7 seeds are also chasing their inaugural Grand Slam victory.

Mertens and Zhang’s Path to the Final

Elise Mertens and Zhang Shuai reached the final after an impressive semifinal performance. They defeated Ena Shibahara and Vera Zvonareva with a score of 6-3, 6-2 in 81 minutes at Margaret Court Arena. This marks their second Grand Slam final as a pair, having finished as runners-up at Wimbledon in 2022.

“We had a really great performance,” said Mertens after their semifinal match. “Everything worked well today.” The duo overcame significant challenges earlier in the tournament, including saving three match points in their second-round match against Iva Jovic and Victoria Mboko. “Now we’re in the final, so anything can happen when you keep on fighting,” Mertens added.

Match Statistics for Mertens and Zhang

• Semifinal score: 6-3, 6-2 against Shibahara/Zvonareva
• Time taken: 1 hour, 21 minutes
• Previous round: Saved three match points in the second round

Danilina and Krunic’s Journey

In the other semifinal, Anna Danilina and Aleksandra Krunic faced Gabriela Dabrowski and Luisa Stefani. After a grueling match lasting nearly two and a half hours, they triumphed 7-6 (2), 3-6, 6-4 on Rod Laver Arena. This victory marks their second Major final as a pair, following their runner-up finish at the French Open last year.

“This match had everything in it,” Krunic stated. “We were down in the third set but managed to stay strong and secure the win.” The duo’s victory followed a remarkable upset of the defending champions, Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend, in the previous round.

Match Statistics for Danilina and Krunic

• Semifinal score: 7-6 (2), 3-6, 6-4 against Dabrowski/Stefani
• Match duration: Nearly 2.5 hours
• Previous round: Upset against No. 1 seeds, Siniakova/Townsend

Player Credentials

Both teams bring impressive credentials into the final. Here are some key highlights:

This upcoming final between Mertens & Zhang and Danilina & Krunic promises to be an electrifying encounter, as both teams seek their first Major title together. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate this extraordinary showdown at the 2024 Australian Open.