Ostapenko and Kichenok Triumph at U.S. Open, Seize First Grand Slam Doubles Title
In a remarkable display of skill and synergy, Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine clinched their maiden Grand Slam doubles title at the U.S. Open on Friday. The unseeded duo navigated through the tournament without dropping a set, culminating in a straight-sets victory over China’s Zhang Shuai and France’s Kristina Mladenovic, 6-4, 6-3.
The match commenced with high intensity as Ostapenko’s powerful forehand secured an early break against Zhang, granting them a crucial advantage in the opening set. Despite a brief setback when Kichenok found the net on her serve, allowing Zhang and Mladenovic to close the gap to 4-3, Ostapenko and Kichenok maintained their composure. Capitalizing on Zhang’s continued struggles with her serve, they sealed the first set 6-4.
The second set saw Mladenovic delivering a strong start by landing a break, but the momentum swiftly swung back as Ostapenko and Kichenok responded with relentless pressure. A decisive smash at the net put them ahead 5-3. Although Ostapenko missed a match point by finding the net, the pair remained unfazed. They ultimately secured the championship with a commanding 6-3 finish in the second set.
Reflecting on their victory, Ostapenko and Kichenok were elated to achieve such a significant milestone as a team. “Winning our first Grand Slam title together is an incredible feeling,” Ostapenko shared. “We’ve worked hard to build our partnership, and it’s amazing to see it pay off at this level.”
On the other side of the net, Zhang Shuai acknowledged the challenges she and Mladenovic faced due to limited time playing together. “We need to recognize that we are making progress despite our low rankings and being unseeded,” Zhang remarked. “Unlike other pairs who have partnered for a year or more, we’ve only played a few matches together. I am quite surprised by our performance here. This result is a starting point, and this U.S. Open journey has been very meaningful to me.”
Mladenovic echoed Zhang’s sentiments, expressing optimism for their future as a team. “I think we both respect each other very much, and I appreciate her so much,” she said. “She’s an amazing player, and I’m so happy we shared the court together. Reaching the finals at a Grand Slam is an amazing result. Hopefully, better luck next time, and we can win more trophies together.”
The success of Ostapenko and Kichenok adds a new dynamic to the women’s doubles circuit, showcasing the impact of effective teamwork and determination. Their victory at the U.S. Open not only marks a personal achievement but also inspires other unseeded and emerging players aiming for Grand Slam success.
Reference(s):
Ostapenko/Kichenok top Zhang/Mladenovic to win U.S. Open doubles title
cgtn.com
