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Elise Mertens Navigates Australian Open Readiness and Doubles Partnership
Leuven native Elise Mertens is adjusting her preparation for the 2026 Australian Open, opting to focus on the United Cup rather than defending her titles at the WTA 250 Hobart tournament, which she previously won in 2017 and 2018 [1]. Her participation in the United Cup alongside Zizou Bergs proved prosperous, helping Belgium reach the semi-finals with victories over Canada’s Victoria Mboko and the Czech Republic’s Barbora Krejcikova.
Prioritizing Recovery and Strategic scheduling
Mertens, who turned 30 in November, emphasized the importance of prioritizing her physical well-being. “I had a final and points to defend but I almost got them back in the united Cup.I just turned 30 in November and I need to pay more attention to my body which needs the necessary recovery,” she stated
