Storm Hunter: The Aussie Storm Chasing Tennis Glory Again in 2026
After an 18-month battle with injury, Australia’s Storm Hunter is back on court and making waves. The former world No. 1 doubles star has stormed into the 2026 season with a point to prove, adamant she can reclaim the form that once made her the planet’s top-ranked player. With a crucial Australian Open win already under her belt and a heroic United Cup performance for her country, the summer of tennis is alive with the promise of a Hunter resurgence.
Hunter’s story is one of remarkable duality: a dominant force in doubles who has tirelessly worked to make her mark in singles. As she targets a climb back up the rankings, her journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, skill, and national pride. For Australian fans, her return is not just a comeback; it’s the return of a champion ready to hunt for more titles.
From Injury Setback to Winning Return
Video Correlato: Storm Hunter (AUS) v Malene Helgo (NOR) – United Cup Highlights | Wide World of Sports
The road back hasn’t been easy. Hunter’s confidence, however, appears unshaken. Speaking ahead of the Australian summer, she expressed a firm belief in her ability to climb the rankings once more. That belief was instantly validated on the court. In Sydney, her two crucial performances were instrumental in kicking off Australia’s 2026 United Cup campaign with a victory, showcasing her invaluable team-first mentality.
“I have confidence in my ability to climb the rankings after an injury-troubled 18 months.” – Storm Hunter
The momentum continued at her home Grand Slam. In a gritty display of determination, Hunter defeated Germany’s Laura Siegemund in the Australian Open round of 64, battling to a 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 victory. This win was a clear statement that the Hunter of old—tenacious, skilled, and a fierce competitor—is well and truly back.
A Career of Dual Threats: Singles & Doubles Mastery
Storm Hunter’s career is best understood by examining her achievements across both disciplines. While she soared to the pinnacle of doubles, she has consistently pushed her singles game to new heights, creating a unique and formidable profile on the WTA Tour.
Career Rankings & Key Statistics
| Category | Career-High Ranking | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| WTA Doubles | World No. 1 | Achieved 6 Nov 2023; held for 12 weeks. Third Australian woman to hold top spot. |
| WTA Singles | World No. 114 | Achieved April 2024. Best Grand Slam result: 3rd Round, 2024 Australian Open. |
| Grand Slam Performance (Doubles) | Champion & Finalist | Won 2024 BNP Paribas Open Mixed Doubles; reached Women’s Doubles final same year. |
Recent Match Performance & Form
| Tournament | Round | Result (vs. Opponent) | Date Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australian Open 2026 | Round of 64 | Win: 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 (vs. Laura Siegemund) | January 2026 |
| United Cup 2026 | Group Stage | Two crucial wins for Team Australia | January 2026, Sydney |
What’s Next for the Aussie Star?
With her current doubles ranking sitting at World No. 33 (as of late December 2025) and a singles ranking on the rise, Hunter’s 2026 calendar is focused on consistency and reclaiming lost ground. The hard courts of the Australian summer suit her aggressive, net-rushing game perfectly. Her success at the BNP Paribas Open in 2024 proves she is a threat on the biggest stages outside the Slams, and she will be eager to add more silverware to her collection of nine doubles titles.
Her career earnings, listed at over A$5.4 million (approx. $3.63 million USD), reflect her success at the elite level. But for Hunter, the current drive isn’t about finances; it’s about legacy and returning to the summit of the sport she loves. Every match this summer is a step towards that goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Storm Hunter’s current WTA ranking?
As of late December 2025, Storm Hunter’s WTA doubles ranking is World No. 33. Her singles ranking fluctuates but is working back towards her career-high of 114. Current live rankings are updated weekly on the WTA official website.
Has Storm Hunter won a Grand Slam title?
Storm Hunter has not yet won a women’s doubles or singles Grand Slam title. However, she has a significant Grand Slam mixed doubles title, winning the inaugural BNP Paribas Open mixed doubles in 2024. She also reached the women’s doubles final at the same event that year.
How long was Storm Hunter the world No. 1 in doubles?
Storm Hunter held the WTA World No. 1 ranking in doubles for a total of 12 weeks. She first reached the top spot on 6 November 2023 and held it until January 2024, becoming the third Australian woman in history to achieve this feat.
What was Storm Hunter’s best result at the Australian Open?
In singles, her best result at the Australian Open was reaching the third round in 2024 as a qualifier. In doubles, she has had several deep runs, consistently using the home crowd support to her advantage.