In a heartwarming display of resilience, Australian tennis favourite Storm Hunter has claimed her first grand slam singles victory in two years, defeating Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in straight sets at the Australian Open.
A Hard-Fought Victory on Home Soil
The 31-year-old Queenslander secured a solid 6-4, 6-4 win on Monday, navigating through the qualifying rounds to earn her spot in the main draw. This significant win not only ends her prolonged wait for a major victory but also guarantees her a $225,000 payday. Her reward is a second-round clash against American player Hailey Baptiste.
"Oh my gosh, I don't know what to say," an emotional Hunter said after the match. "I'm so full of joy being out here playing, win or lose I don't really care. I just want to come out and enjoy and put on a good show for everyone out here."
Overcoming a Career-Threatening Setback
Hunter's journey back to this moment has been arduous. Her career was thrown into jeopardy in April 2024 when she suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon. The devastating injury came just months after the highlight of her 2023 home grand slam, where she reached the third round in singles and the semi-finals in doubles.
"It was really tough mentally and physically coming back from the Achilles rupture," Hunter admitted. "I didn't think I could be back playing at this level again." She credited her dedicated team for the successful comeback, stating, "I'm just so happy that all the hard work I've done with my team, it's paid off and I can't believe I get another singles match. It's crazy."
From Commentator's Box to Centre Court
During her recovery, Hunter stayed connected to the game by working as a commentator for last year's tournament. She reflected on the stark contrast, saying, "I absolutely loved commentating last year, and now I'm out here playing, which is just crazy and I'm just so happy to be here."
In her post-match celebrations, Hunter first paid tribute to her husband Loughlin, calling him her "No.1 supporter" – a gesture that prompted her coach, Nicole Pratt, to raise her arms in joyful disbelief. She quickly turned her gratitude to the supportive Melbourne crowd, laughing as she added, "And all of you guys!"
This victory marks a spectacular return to the big time for the local hope, proving her determination and skill have overcome one of sport's most challenging injuries.
