Following the news that singles World No. 1s Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams have been announced as the ITF’s players of the year, Indian ace Sania Mirza and doubles partner Martina Hingis were named World Doubles Champions by the International Tennis Federation.
The Indo-Swiss pair, who came together earlier this year, have enjoyed immense success on the circuit, winning 7 WTA titles in the year in addition to two Grand Slams, and taking the title at the year-ending WTA Finals.
“I am very honoured to receive this award from the ITF after what has been a great year for me and Martina. It is incredible that we have achieved so much in such a short time playing together. I am grateful to everyone that has helped me throughout my career and I hope that my success can inspire other girls in India,” Mirza told assembled press at the event.
The pair recently ended the year as World No. 1s.
Although it is Mirza’s first ITF title, it is former World No. Hingis’ second. A tennis prodigy regarded as one of the greatest female players in the game, and the youngest ever Grand Slam winner in tennis history, the Swiss first received an ITF title in 2000, for her singles proficiency. Hingis has won even more events than Mirza this year, partnering Leander Paes to mixed doubles victory at three grand slams.
The Swiss Miss was equally pleased at the honour, telling reporters “,”It is a great honour to be named ITF Women’s Doubles World Champions. Sania and I have enjoyed every minute of the season and we hope to continue in 2016 in the same fashion. We are set to join a long list of champions and it is a privilege to be recognised alongside them.”
Mirza and Hingis have said they intend to stay partners through 2016, and considering their form appear to be on track to collect even more titles this year.
