Michael Venus became New Zealand’s first Grand Slam champion since 1974 on Saturday when he partnered American Ryan Harrison to the French Open men’s doubles title.
The 29-year-old is New Zealand’s only second Grand Slam winner in the Open Era, after Onny Parun teamed up with Australian Dick Crealy to win the men’s doubles crown in Paris 43 years ago.
Venus and Harrison defeated Santiago Gonzalez of Mexico and American Donald Young 7-6(5), 6-7(4), 6-3 in the final at Roland Garros. The match lasted two hours and 14 minutes. While both teams fared badly in their break point conversion, Venus and Harrison were relatively better, converting two of the seven break point chances they faced to Gonzalez and Donald’s conversion of a solitary break point out of seven chances.
The champions hit five winners and had just the one unforced error to their opponents’ three winners and 10 unforced errors.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!