September 09, (THEWILL) – In a stunning upset, unseeded duo, Anna Danilina of Kazakhstan and Harri Heliovaara of Finland, captured the US Open mixed doubles title on Saturday, defeating top seeds Jessica Pegula and Austin Krajicek of the USA 6-3 6-4.
The unlikely pair, who met by pure chance just over a week ago, at the sign-in table, proved unbeatable as they smoothly sailed to victory in their first ever Grand Slam final. Converting an early break, they clinched the opening set in 31 minutes.
Though the Americans got one break back in the second set, Danilina and Heliovaara remained firmly in control, breaking serve again at 5-4 to seal the championship.
“I have no words. It was an amazing run,” said an elated Danilina afterwards. “I don’t know what to say, it’s been a pleasure. To many more.” Heliovaara initially forgot to thank his partner during the trophy ceremony, but quickly returned to the microphone to rectify his mistake. “She is the reason we are standing here,” he acknowledged.
Having only decided to play together at the last minute, the unlikely duo have stunned the tennis world with their flawless teamwork and composure under pressure. Their triumphant Grand Slam victory, over the top-ranked team no less, will certainly be remembered as one of the sport’s greatest Cinderella stories.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
