Kudermetova and Mertens Reunite and Claim Another Title
After winning the WTA Finals in Fort Worth in 2022, Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens did not compete together in 2023 or 2024. However, they reunited in late April and quickly found their rhythm, making it to the finals in consecutive WTA 1000 tournaments in Madrid and Rome.
This remarkable comeback led them to the WTA Finals in Riyadh, where they earned the No. 4 seed despite a delayed entry compared to other teams. Their reunion was highlighted by a decisive victory over three-time champion Timea Babos and her partner Luisa Stefani, winning 7-6 (4), 6-1 in just 1 hour and 36 minutes at King Saud University Indoor Arena, culminating in their second Martina Navratilova Trophy.
Kudermetova expressed her gratitude during the trophy presentation, stating, “Thanks to my partner, Elise. I’m so happy that we are together on one side. I hope that we can continue to play like that. Also, thank you to our team for always being there for us.” Mertens echoed her appreciation, highlighting the fantastic atmosphere throughout the tournament and their eagerness to return next year.
Consistent Success on Big Stages
The pair demonstrated a tendency to excel on significant occasions. Alongside their second Martina Navratilova Trophy, they also clinched the Wimbledon title earlier in the year, bringing their total titles to five, which includes wins in Istanbul (2021) and Dubai (2022).
Mertens, a former world No. 1, possesses an impressive record of 23 WTA doubles titles and five Grand Slam trophies. Kudermetova, previously ranked No. 2, reached her tenth doubles title with this victory in Riyadh, complementing her career that also includes two WTA Finals trophies and a Wimbledon title.
Journey to the Championship
Before securing their latest title, Kudermetova and Mertens had to navigate a challenging path. They faced an initial setback with a loss in their opening match in Riyadh, but rebounded with a hard-fought victory over Asia Muhammad and Demi Schuurs. They then advanced to the semifinals by defeating top seeds Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini.
Key Moments in the Final
The final saw Kudermetova and Mertens take an early lead and withstand a strong challenge from Babos and Stefani to win the first set in a tiebreak. The second set showcased their dominance, securing a quick lead and ultimately winning the match by taking three consecutive games.
Post-Match Reflections
As celebrations ensued for the champions, the runners-up faced a bittersweet moment. Babos announced that her partnership with Stefani would not continue, citing personal reasons and her uncertainty about playing a full season in the future. Despite the outcome, she expressed gratitude for their shared achievements.
With her remarkable career, Babos, a four-time Grand Slam doubles champion, closed her full-time career while Stefani finished her best season to date, capped off with four titles in six finals.
