[Australian tennis player Storm Hunter has achieved the year-end world No.1 doubles ranking after reaching the semi-finals of the 2023 WTA Finals in Mexico. She is only the second Australian, after Samantha Stosur, to claim this honor. Although Rennae Stubbs also reached the top spot in doubles, she did not achieve the year-ending feat. Hunter, alongside her partner Elise Mertens from Belgium, emerged at the top of their group by winning all three of their round-robin matches in Cancun. In the semi-finals, they were set to face Russian Vera Zvonareva and German Laura Siegemund.
Before reaching this stage, Zvonareva and Siegemund caused an upset by defeating American top seeds Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula. The match saw an intense battle, with Zvonareva and Siegemund ultimately prevailing with a 6-3, 4-6, 10-8 victory. This defeat for Gauff and Pegula, who were the current co-No.1s, solidified Hunter’s claim to the top ranking.
For Hunter, winning the season-ending crown in Cancun would be a significant accomplishment. Not only would it add a prestigious title to her resume, but it would also further cement her position as the world’s best doubles player. The 2023 WTA Finals being marred by rain did not dampen the excitement surrounding the tournament, as the top players showcased their skills and fought for the ultimate prize.
Hunter’s rise to the top of the doubles rankings has been impressive. The Australian player has exhibited exceptional talent and consistency throughout the season, earning her the coveted No.1 spot. Her partnership with Mertens has proven to be a formidable force, as they have dominated their opponents and remained undefeated in the group stage.
By achieving the year-end No.1 ranking, Hunter joins an elite group of Australian tennis players. Samantha Stosur, a former grand slam singles champion, was the first Australian to accomplish this feat. Rennae Stubbs, another Australian doubles player, had also reached the top spot in doubles but fell short of ending the year as No.1. Hunter’s achievement solidifies her place among these legendary tennis figures and strengthens Australia’s presence in the doubles discipline.
Looking ahead to the semi-finals against Zvonareva and Siegemund, Hunter and Mertens faced a formidable challenge. With their victory over the top-seeded Gauff and Pegula, Zvonareva and Siegemund proved their ability to compete at a high level. However, Hunter and Mertens have shown great resilience and skill throughout the tournament, and they will undoubtedly give their opponents a tough fight.
Regardless of the outcome, Storm Hunter has already made history by clinching the year-end No.1 doubles ranking. Her achievements this season have elevated her status within the tennis world and solidified her as one of the best doubles players in the game. With her talent and determination, she is poised to continue her success and leave a lasting impact on Australian tennis.
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