The New Zealand tennis star who conquered the US Open twice
In short: Born during her parents' global sailing adventure, Erin Routliffe has risen from the junior circuits to the pinnacle of professional tennis. Now a former world No. 1, she has secured two major doubles titles, etching her name into the history of New Zealand women's sport.
Erin Routliffe's journey to the top of the tennis world began with a unique start; she was born in New Zealand in 1995 while her parents, Robert Routliffe and Catherine MacLennan, were on a four-year around-the-world sailing trip. Though born in New Zealand, Routliffe represented Canada internationally until 2017, when she officially changed her nationality to represent her country of birth. Her sisters, Tara and Tess, were also born in Auckland. Tess has achieved success as an international para-swimmer.
Specializing in doubles, Routliffe reached the summit of the rankings on 15 July 2024, when she became the world No. 1. Her career is defined by high-stakes success, including winning the 2024 WTA Finals alongside partner Gabriela Dabrowski. This partnership has proven particularly dominant in Grand Slam competition, securing major doubles titles at both the 2023 and 2025 US Open. She has also achieved a total of 12 WTA Tour doubles titles. Furthermore, she represented New Zealand at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Her ascent is significant for New Zealand sports history. Securing these major titles made Routliffe the second New Zealand woman to claim a major during the Open Era, succeeding 1979 Australian Open winner Judy Connor. In addition to personal trophies, Routliffe has collected 12 WTA Tour doubles titles and competed for New Zealand in the BJK Cup and the 2024 Summer Olympics. Her success has made her a prominent figure in New Zealand's sporting history.
Routliffe's professional foundation was built through rigorous training and collegiate success. Following her 2011 relocation to Montreal for training at the National Training Centre, she went to the University of Alabama, winning two NCAA doubles championships throughout 2014 and 2015. She was a two-time NCAA doubles champion. This success occurred during the 2014 and 2015 seasons.
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