Elise Mertens of Belgium and Zhang Shuai from China etched another chapter in their storied partnership by winning the Australian Open 2026 women’s doubles crown. They defeated seventh seeds Anna Danilina and Alexandra Krunic 7-6(4), 6-4 in a match packed with momentum swings. Down 1-4 early, Mertens-Zhang roared back to take the tiebreak. A blistering 5-0 start in set two tested their resolve as opponents clawed back to save championship points, but the duo held firm.
After a gap since Wimbledon 2022, their on-court synergy was electric, leading to this prestigious title. Mertens now boasts six Grand Slam doubles triumphs, three at Melbourne Park. Zhang celebrates her third, recalling her 2019 AO and 2021 US Open wins.
Mertens’ streak of yearly Grand Slam doubles titles over three years highlights her elite pedigree. Ranked sixth globally, she’ll resume No. 1 status next week for her 40th week. This victory reaffirms her as doubles royalty.
Eyes now turn to the men’s doubles final featuring Aussie wildcards Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans. In mixed doubles, Olivia Gadecki and John Peers created legacy by repeating as champions.