It's time to celebrate some smashing news from the tennis world! 🎾✨
Jelena Ostapenko and Lyudmyla Kichenok have just made a grand slam in style, winning their first Grand Slam doubles title at the US Open without dropping a single set! 🏆 Their incredible journey culminated in a straight-sets victory over China's Zhang Shuai and France's Kristina Mladenovic, sealing the match 6-4, 6-3.
From the get-go, Ostapenko's fierce forehand was on fire, breaking Zhang's serve and giving them the early lead. Despite some tight moments, including Kichenok finding the net on serve which narrowed their advantage, the dynamic duo kept their cool. Zhang struggled on her serve, which the opposition capitalized on, taking the first set 6-4.
Mladenovic and Zhang tried to turn the tides at the start of the second set, with Mladenovic landing a break. But Ostapenko and Kichenok were unstoppable! After a powerful smash at the net, they surged ahead to lead 5-3. Although Ostapenko found the net on match point, giving their opponents a glimmer of hope, she soon closed out the match with style. 💪🔥
This victory marks a significant milestone for Ostapenko and Kichenok as a team, proving that their partnership is a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world. 👫💥
Even in defeat, Zhang and Mladenovic held their heads high. Zhang reflected on their impressive run despite being unseeded and having little time playing together. \"We need to see that we are progressing as we have a low ranking and are unseeded,\" Zhang said. \"I am quite surprised to have such performance… I think this US Open journey is quite meaningful to me.\"
Mladenovic echoed the positive sentiments, expressing confidence in their future together. \"I think we both respect each other very much and I appreciate her so much,\" she shared. \"For the Grand Slam, we are back together and I think it was an amazing result. Hopefully, better luck next time and we can win more trophies.\"
This showdown showcased not just the prowess of Ostapenko and Kichenok but also the potential of Zhang and Mladenovic's partnership. The future of women's doubles tennis is looking brighter than ever! ✨🎾
Reference(s):
Ostapenko/Kichenok top Zhang/Mladenovic to win U.S. Open doubles title
cgtn.com
