Krejčíková and Siniaková Reunite in Women’s Doubles After 14 Months

SEOUL, South Korea — In a highly anticipated return, Barbora Krejčíková and Katerina Siniaková reunited on the women’s doubles court after 14 months apart. The former world No. 1 team scored an impressive victory on Tuesday, defeating Anna Blinkova and Makoto Ninomiya 6-4, 6-3 in their first match together since their separation.

The Czech duo, once dominant in women’s doubles, had a remarkable run from 2018 to 2023, capturing seven Grand Slam titles, an Olympic gold medal, and the WTA Tour Finals championship. They achieved a career Golden Slam, winning all four major titles and Olympic gold, culminating with a U.S. Open victory in 2022.

However, their success was hindered throughout 2023 by injuries and a decline in performance, leading to a disappointing exit from the group stage of the WTA Finals. Following a loss to Canada in the Billie Jean King Cup, Siniaková decided not to partner Krejčíková for the 2024 season, a move that left Krejčíková blindsided.

“This decision was Katerina’s, not really mine – I would love to play with her and compete at the Olympics,” Krejčíková said three months later. The two did reconnect for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, winning a warm-up event in Prague but faced disappointment in the quarter-finals against Russian players Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider.

Now, as they progress through the event in Seoul, uncertainty surrounds their long-term plans. Taylor Townsend and Siniaková currently hold the No. 1 ranking in women’s doubles, having enjoyed a successful season together. If Krejčíková and Siniaková can build on their Seoul performance, it may signal the start of a new chapter in their illustrious careers.