Elise Mertens, Zhang Shuai Secure Australian Open Doubles Title

Elise Mertens and Zhang Shuai triumphed at the Australian Open, capturing the women’s doubles title in an electrifying final on Saturday. This victory marks Mertens’ return to the No. 1 ranking in doubles, a spot she has previously held for a cumulative 40 weeks.

Match Overview

The final saw Mertens and Zhang face off against Anna Danilina from Kazakhstan and Serbia’s Aleksandra Krunic. Initially, the duo fell behind, trailing 3-0 and later 4-1 in the first set. However, they demonstrated great resilience, rallying to win the match 7-6 (4), 6-4.

Key Match Highlights

• Mertens and Zhang took a commanding lead in the final set, leading 5-0.
• Danilina and Krunic attempted a comeback, winning four consecutive games.
• This victory marks Mertens’ sixth Grand Slam doubles title.

For Zhang, this title adds to her impressive record, totaling three Grand Slam doubles titles, including the 2019 Australian Open and the 2021 U.S. Open.

Partnership Dynamics

This tournament was particularly special for Mertens and Zhang as it was their first Grand Slam title as a team. They had previously lost in the 2022 Wimbledon final but reunited after a four-year hiatus.

Reflecting on their performance, Mertens stated, “This is like cherry on the cake. We paired up as a team very last-minute. In the second round, we saved three match points, which elevated our game. It has been an unbelievable two weeks.”

Mertens’ Career Milestones

• Current doubles ranking: No. 6 (to return to No. 1 post-Australian Open).
• Previous Grand Slam doubles titles: six (including 2021 and 2024 at the Australian Open).

Zhang also praised their collaboration, emphasizing their ability to adapt during matches. “We know how to play finals and how to win them,” she said. “If something doesn’t work, we always adjust.”

Mertens additionally made an impressive run in singles at the Australian Open, reaching the fourth round before being defeated by eventual finalist Elena Rybakina.

This remarkable achievement by Mertens and Zhang underscores their skill and determination, solidifying their status among the elite in women’s doubles tennis.