Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Elise Mertens

How Elise Mertens built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Elise Mertens is a Belgian professional tennis player renowned for her achievements in both singles and doubles. Notably, she reached the world No. 1 ranking in women's doubles in May 2021, marking the third Belgian to achieve a top ranking in either singles or doubles. Mertens has secured an impressive 32 WTA Tour-level titles, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in professional tennis.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 2021: Became world No. 1 in women's doubles

In May 2021, Elise Mertens achieved the world No. 1 ranking in women's doubles, making her the third Belgian player after Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin to hold a top ranking in either singles or doubles.

May 2021: Regained world No. 1 spot in doubles

In May 2021, Elise Mertens regained the world No. 1 spot in doubles after winning the Wimbledon title with Hsieh Su-wei. She had previously held the position for a week earlier that month.

May 2021: Reached world No. 1 for the first time

On May 10, 2021, despite a second round loss with partner Hsieh Su-wei, Elise Mertens achieved a significant milestone by becoming the world No. 1 in doubles for the first time, joining Kim Clijsters as the second Belgian player to reach this achievement.

May 2023: Won Italian Open doubles title and returned to top 10 in doubles

In May 2023, Elise Mertens partnered with Hunter to win her fifth WTA 1000 title at the Italian Open. Consequently, she returned to the top 10 in doubles rankings on May 22, 2023.

September 2023: Returned to world No. 1 in doubles

In September 2023, Elise Mertens returned to the world No. 1 ranking in doubles after more than a year, following a semifinal showing at the Guadalajara Open with Hunter. They won the title defeating Erin Routliffe and Gabriela Dabrowski.

2023: ATP Finals Semifinals and Doubles Ranking

In 2023, Elise Mertens reached the semifinals in doubles with Hunter at the ATP Finals and finished the year ranked No. 2 in doubles for the first time.

2023: Eighth Singles Title at Jasmin Open

In 2023, Elise Mertens won her eighth singles title at the Jasmin Open in Monastir, successfully defending it with a victory over Jasmine Paolini, which resulted in her return to the top 30 in the rankings.

2025: Tenth Singles Title at Libéma Open

In 2025, Elise Mertens won her tenth singles title at the Libéma Open, saving eleven match points en route to the title. This achievement equals the record for match points saved to win a tennis tour-level match this century.