[first time last year, formed a successful partnership and won five titles together in 2023.
Hunter will become just the third Australian to top the WTA Tour’s doubles rankings. She follows in the footsteps of Rennae Stubbs and Sam Stosur and is the first Australian to achieve this feat in more than 16 years.
Speaking ahead of the WTA Finals, Hunter said she was proud to represent Australia on the global stage and that reaching world No.1 would be a career-defining moment for her.
“I have worked incredibly hard to get to this point and to be on the verge of becoming world No.1 is a dream come true. I have always been extremely proud of my Australian heritage and being able to achieve something that hasn’t been done in such a long time is incredibly special to me,” Hunter said.
Hunter’s rise to the top of the rankings has been a long time in the making. She has been a consistent performer on the doubles circuit for several years and has gradually improved her ranking to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
During her successful 2023 season, Hunter and Mertens played with a combination of aggressive returning, strong serving, and solid net play, which made them a formidable team. Their ability to communicate and work together on the court was evident in their success and contributed to their rise to the top of the rankings.
As Hunter prepares to take her place as the world No.1, she can look back with pride on a season that has seen her achieve her lifelong dream of reaching the top of the rankings. Her success has not only been the result of her dedication and hard work but also of the support and guidance of her coaches, trainers, and team members.
In addition to her on-court successes, Hunter has also been a positive role model for young Australian tennis players, demonstrating the dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship required to reach the highest levels of the sport.
As she looks ahead to the future, Hunter will face the challenge of maintaining her No.1 ranking and continuing to compete at a high level. With the support of her team and the lessons she has learned throughout her career, she is well-equipped to handle the pressures and demands that come with being at the top of the sport.
Although her journey to the No.1 ranking has not always been easy, Hunter’s determination and commitment have seen her achieve her goal, and she is now poised to join an elite group of Australian tennis players at the top of the WTA doubles rankings.
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