Danilina from Kazakhstan and Heliovaara from Finland just so happened to be at the sign-in table at the same moment and they randomly paired up ahead.
In the U.S. Open mixed doubles final on Saturday, Anna Danilina and Harri Heliovaara—who met by coincidence just over a week ago—defeated top-seeded Americans Jessica Pegula and Austin Krajicek 6-3, 6-4 to capture their first Grand Slam title.
Danilina from Kazakhstan and Heliovaara from Finland just so happened to be at the sign-in table at the same moment and they randomly paired up ahead.
"I have no words to express my gratitude to my partner. During her on-court interview, Danilina remarked, "It was a tremendous run. "I'm at a loss for words; it's been a pleasure. Many more please.
The unseeded pair got off to a strong start in the championship match by consolidating an early break for a 3-0 lead and never looking back. They also saved all four break points they came up against before Danilina finished off the first set's 31 minutes with a forehand smash.
Before the Americans put the second set back on serve in the fourth game, Heliovaara and Danilina broke the tiebreaker once more to take control of the match.
However, Heliovaara and Danilina wouldn't allow the Americans to regain control of the game, as they went on to break at love to take the lead at 5-4 before clinching the triumph.
When speaking to the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd during the title ceremony, Heliovaara first neglected to mention Danilina but soon asked for the microphone back.
Heliovaara added, "I also have to thank my partner. We are gathered here because of her. Two weeks ago, I didn't know you, but now I do. I appreciate it, Anna.
