Australian Open 2023
Venue: Melbourne Park
Dates: Jan 16-29
Australian wildcards Rinky Hijikata and Jason Kubler claimed a stunning victory over Hugo Nys and Jan Zielinski to win the men's doubles title at the Australian Open.
Hijikata and Kubler claimed a 6-4 7-6 (7-4) win in front of a raucous home crowd on Rod Laver Arena.
The two, who had not played together before this year's major, beat seven top-20 ranked pairs to make the final.
"I don't know what to say – it's a pleasant surprise," said Kubler.
Hijikata and Kubler overwhelmed their opponents, who are doubles specialists but were appearing in a Grand Slam final for the first time.
They previously beat top seeds Neal Skupski of Great Britain and the Netherlands' Wesley Koolhof in the quarter-finals.
They succeed compatriots Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis as doubles champions in Melbourne.
"I wasn't sure if I was going to play when Rinky asked me," Kubler said. "Two weeks later, we've got the trophy."
Hijikata added: "It's been ridiculous. I've never experienced anything like this.
"Kubs, I'm so glad you said yes to playing with me."
