Luisa Stefani and Rafael Matos have created tennis historical past to disclaim Sania Mirza a fairytale end to her trailblazing profession with victory within the Australian Open combined doubles closing.
The unseeded duo proved too sturdy for Mirza and fellow Indian Rohan Bopanna, prevailing 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 in Friday’s championship decider at Rod Laver Arena.
In doing so, they grew to become the primary all-Brazilian pairing to win a grand slam title.
Mirza received six main doubles titles – three combined, together with the 2009 Australian Open – and can finish her glittering profession subsequent month in Dubai.
The 36-year-old first appeared at a grand slam 18 years in the past in Melbourne, when she was crushed by eventual champion Serena Williams within the girls’s singles third spherical.
“I’ve had the privilege to come back here again and again, and win some tournaments and play some great finals,” Mirza stated.
“Rod Laver Arena has really been special in my life and I couldn’t think of a better arena to finish my career at in a grand slam.”
Mirza was 14 years outdated when she first partnered Bopanna on courtroom, and the shut buddies have since shared a particular bond.
The 42-year-old Bopanna stated Mirza had been an inspiration for tennis followers the world over, particularly in her homeland.
“It’s truly special for me to play along with Sania,” Bopanna stated.
“Unfortunately we couldn’t get the title, but thank you so much for what you have done for Indian tennis.”
Stefani and Matos dropped only one set – in opposition to the Australian wildcard pairing of Olivia Gadecki and Marc Polmans of their semi-final – throughout 5 matches that led to the championship.
It is the primary time both 25-year-old Stefani or 27-year-old Matos have received a serious title.
The pair got here collectively earlier this 12 months on the United Cup in Brisbane, and at the moment are unbeaten in seven matches.
Stefani stated an invite from Matos to play collectively on her return from a critical knee harm supplied inspiration as she accomplished her rehabilitation final 12 months.
“It was about Wimbledon-time last year and he asked me how I was doing,” she stated.
“I was doing rehab … that was a big motivation for me to keep working hard and keep getting closer to coming back.
“Now right here we’re, profitable our first grand slam collectively in Australia on this lovely courtroom … it is a dream come true.”
Stefani and Matos vowed to be again subsequent 12 months to defend their crown.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
