Sam Stosur Takes Out The Australian Open Women's Doubles Alongside Zhang Shuai

Samantha Stosur is an Australian Open champion once more, teaming with Zhang Shuai to win the women’s doubles on Friday afternoon.

Stosur and Zhang were emphatic in their defeat of second seeds and reigning champions Timea Babos and Kristina Mladenovic, winning 6-3 6-4 in an hour and 34 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

The popular Queenslander was ecstatic in triumph 14 years after her mixed doubles success with Scott Draper.

Stosur dropped her racquet on championship point as if in disbelief before embracing her great friend at the net.

The triumph was a redemption of sorts for the 34-year-old, who with partner Lisa Raymond held championship points to win the same title 13 years ago but failed to convert.

Stosur’s resolve was tested several times through the match; not more so than when she double faulted on her first championship point.

What followed was the point of the match – if not the tournament – a 25-point rally when both Stosur and Zhang missed a number of smash opportunities before holding steady to win another championship point.

Stosur and Zhang wouldn’t be denied on the next opportunity to claim the trophy.

- AAP