Storm Hunter becomes sole active Australian to qualify for all four Grand Slams

Storm Hunter, a 32-year-old Australian, clinched a main-draw berth at the US Open, marking her as the only active player from her country to have qualified for all four major tournaments. The qualifying campaign saw her defeat compatriot Maddison Inglis, survive two match points in a subsequent round, and endure a 24-hour weather delay before securing a third consecutive sudden-death win. This accomplishment follows a lengthy hiatus caused by a ruptured Achilles tendon, making her return to a Grand Slam main draw since 2023 especially noteworthy.

In the first round, Hunter will face 11th-seeded Marta Kostyuk, a recent semifinalist at both the French Open and Wimbledon. She expressed confidence and excitement about the challenge, noting the quick transition from qualifiers to the main event. Six Australians, including Kim Birrell and Alex de Minaur, are also slated to compete in the tournament.