Ukrainian tennis star Lyudmyla Kichenok defied a recent wedding postponement to claim the US Open Women's Doubles title with partner Jelena Ostapenko, continuing their impressive run without dropping a set throughout the entire tournament.
Ukrainian tennis ace Lyudmyla Kichenok has celebrated a fairytale triumph at the US Open Women's Doubles tournament, despite having to postpone her wedding to secure the title.
Partnering with Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia, Kichenok overcame the disappointment of a delayed nuptials to produce a dominant performance at Flushing Meadows, leaving opponents Kristina Mladenovic and Zhang Shuai in their wake in straight sets.
Tennis Fairytale: Kichenok and Ostapenko Win US Open Women's Doubles Title Despite Postponed Wedding
Their flawless run of victories throughout the tournament culminated in a 6-2, 6-4 triumph in the final, etching their names in the annals of tennis history and adding to Kichenok's impressive resume of titles.
Yet, behind the celebratory scenes, a poignant story unfolded as Kichenok revealed that she had been scheduled to tie the knot earlier in the week with her boyfriend, Stas Khmarskiy, who also happens to be Ostapenko's coach.
Tennis Fairytale: Kichenok and Ostapenko Win US Open Women's Doubles Title Despite Postponed Wedding
"My boyfriend could be my husband actually, because we were supposed to get married this Wednesday, but it didn't happen," Kichenok said, adding that they planned to get married before the semifinals but had to postpone due to her tournament commitments.
Ostapenko, a fellow tennis champion who has also tasted Grand Slam glory, offered her support and joked that it was a "good excuse" to delay the wedding.
Tennis Fairytale: Kichenok and Ostapenko Win US Open Women's Doubles Title Despite Postponed Wedding
In a touching gesture of camaraderie, American tennis star Jessica Pegula, who is competing in Saturday's Women's Singles final, sent a congratulatory note and a bottle of champagne to Kichenok, acknowledging her wedding postponement.
"I saw you were supposed to get married Wednesday," Pegula's note read. "Congrats on a great tournament and enjoy your wedding!"
The US Open title marks a significant milestone for Kichenok, who has now won eight WTA doubles titles in her illustrious career. Her partnership with Ostapenko has proven to be a formidable force, having won their first Grand Slam title together at the Australian Open earlier this year.
Beyond the accolades and champagne celebrations, Kichenok's triumph at the US Open stands as a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. She has proven that personal sacrifices and setbacks can serve as fuel for extraordinary achievements on the court.
As Kichenok prepares to celebrate her wedding in the near future, she can reflect on an unforgettable fortnight at the US Open, where she not only captured a coveted title but also shared a memorable and heartwarming story with the world.
