Hingis teams with Mirza to win Wimbledon women’s doubles title

LONDON – Martina Hingis is a Wimbledon champion once again, 17 years – exactly half her life – after the last time.

Already a member of the International Tennis Hall of Fame on the merits of her “first” career in the sport, Hingis teamed with Sania Mirza to win the women’s doubles final at the All England Club by beating Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina 5-7, 7-6 (4), 7-5 on Saturday night.

The 34-year-old Hingis added to her collection of Wimbledon trophies that includes the singles title from 1997, plus the women’s doubles titles from 1996 and 1998. The latter was her last appearance in a final at Wimbledon.

“It feels like it was in another life,” Hingis said.

“Usually, you’re lucky to win it once or happy to be out here and play on the Wimbledon grounds,” Hingis said. “It’s above my expectations.”

She’ll get a chance to earn yet another trophy today, when she and Leander Paes face Timea Babos and Alexander Peya in the mixed doubles final.

And to think: A few years ago, Hingis was taking part in the “Legends” tournament for former players.

“I wouldn’t have thought (then) that I’ll be back, playing the finals here,” she said.

Hingis won five Grand Slam singles titles in the 1990s.