'Been an incredible year': Alex de Minaur, Matt Ebden split the honours for Australia's top gong
Alex de Minaur and Matt Ebden have been announced as joint winners of the John Newcombe Medal after an "incredible" 2024 for Australian tennis.
The pair both enjoyed immense seasons on the court, with de Minaur enjoying a career-best campaign and reaching as high as No.6 on the ATP rankings.
The country's top-ranked singles player also featured in three-straight grand slam quarter finals, while becoming the first Aussie player to reach the ATP Finals in 20 years.
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Alex de Minaur in action. Getty
"I'm so proud and happy to win the Newcombe Medal award again, and want to say how much I appreciate it, and also being able to share it with Matt," de Minaur said.
"It's been an incredible year for Australian tennis and I'm just so happy to be part of it.
"I'd like to congratulate Matt, who's done amazing things this year, and his team – the Olympic gold medal was a highlight, as well as all the other nominees tonight.
"Let's all fight to have an even better year in 2025."
As for Ebden, his year was filled with gold as he took home the coveted award for the first time in his storied doubles career.
The 37-year-old started the year with a home grand slam title at the Australian Open, before teaming up with John Peers to win an Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024.
Matthew Ebden and John Peers celebrate with their gold medals. AP
"I couldn't be up here without my doubles partner, Peersy," Ebden said.
"My wife travelling with me with a baby for two years, travelling with me for 12 years, all my coaches, mentors, everyone who's given me advice, Davis Cup captains, I wouldn't be here without any of you.
"It seems like one for Australia. Like Alex said I think nearly every nominee deserved to win this award. I'm super humbled and proud to win this award so thank you.
"We have one more really big goal to achieve and win that Davis Cup for Australia again so we'll push for that again next year."
