West Australian gold medal hope Storm Hunter will miss the Olympic Games after it was revealed she ruptured her Achilles this week.

The world No.3 doubles star was poised to represent Australia against Mexico in their Billie Jean King Cup tie but went down with the devastating injury at training.

It is a massive blow to Hunter, who would have gone into the Paris Olympics as a strong gold medal chance alongside partner, fellow West Australian and world No.2 doubles star Matt Ebden.

“Just a quick update from me. Unfortunately yesterday in our last practice before the tie, I went down and scans last night confirmed that I have ruptured my Achilles tendon,” Hunter posted on social media.

“I am devastated and heartbroken, but incredibly grateful to be around the team and I know I have a great group of people around me that will help me get back on the court as soon as possible.

“Thank you so much everyone for your messages of support and love, I’m excited to stay for the tie and support our Aussie girls.”

The post finished with a green and gold heart emoji.

It comes after a career-best season for Hunter, who finished 2023 as the world No.1 in doubles after a successful partnership alongside Elise Mertens.

The two have since split and are now formed a new partnership with Czech star Kateřina Siniaková.

Hunter was set to team up with Ellen Perez for the clash with Mexico.

“Playing alongside someone like Storm, who’s been No.1 and a great friend, and just playing with all these girls, we have such great camaraderie and playing for each other, being obviously a part of this team, I want to do my part,” Perez said.

Hunter has also turned her attention to singles in recent months and had a career-high singles ranking of 114 at the start of April.

It comes on the back of finishing of making the final 32 of the Australian Open - her best result in a grand slam singles draw.

Hunter is no stranger to injuries, with a serious shoulder injury being compounded by ankle, back and hamstring complaints that left her career at a cross-roads in 2018 and only $1000 in her bank account.