Seven Australians, including John Peers and Storm Sanders in the mixed doubles semifinals, are in action on day 11 at this year’s US Open.
New York, USA , 8 September 2022 | Leigh Rogers
Ten Australians have advanced to Grand Slam doubles semifinals this season, with Ellen Perez and Storm Sanders the latest additions to this remarkable list.
They join John Peers, Nick Kyrgios, Thanasi Kokkinakis, Matthew Ebden, Max Purcell, Jason Kubler, Sam Stosur and Jaimee Fourlis to have advanced to the final four at major doubles tournaments this year.
“I don’t think it’s a coincidence. Growing up in Australia, we have a lot of focus on volleying and doubles,” noted 26-year-old Perez of these incredible results.
“I know me as a junior, I always played doubles in the tournaments. And I think having the likes of Casey Dellacqua, Sam Stosur, the Woodies, all the people that have come before us and done such successful things in doubles, it has kind of shown us ‘why not us?’”
> READ: Perez “very proud” of US Open breakthrough run
Sanders, who has reached the semifinals in both the women’s doubles and mixed doubles competitions at this year’s US Open, agrees.
“We’re all pushing each other and challenging each other to do better,” said the 28-year-old.
“Even just seeing other Aussies doing well and being around other Aussies deep in the second week at a Grand Slam, it’s a really positive experience. It makes you think if they can do it, then I can do it too. Why can’t we be Grand Slam champions?”
Perez and Sanders continue their Grand Slam quests on day 11 at Flushing Meadows, where both have a chance to reach their first major final.
They are among seven Australians scheduled to compete on day 11. This also includes 18-year-old Saalim Naser, who becomes the first Australian to contest a Grand Slam junior wheelchair event.
Making history 💪
Saalim Naser is set to become Australia’s first ever junior wheelchair Grand Slam competitor at the 2022 #USOpen 👇#GoAussies
— TennisAustralia (@TennisAustralia) September 8, 2022
The US Open is broadcast on the Nine Network and Stan Sport in Australia, with coverage beginning from 2am AEST.
Aussies in action:
[4] Storm Sanders (AUS)/John Peers (AUS) v [WC] Caty McNally (USA)/William Blumberg (USA)
Mixed doubles, semifinals, Louis Armstrong Stadium, third match (not before 4.30am AEST)
Teaming up for the first time, world No.21 Sanders and world No.10…
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