&imwidth=800&imheight=600&format=webp&quality=medium "Australian Open 2026, Day 3 wrap: Osaka steals spotlight as Sinner cruises and Monfils bids farewell")
Jannik Sinner opened his Australian Open campaign with ease, but the day truly belonged to Naomi Osaka in Melbourne. While the Italian moved into round two after a quick retirement win, Osaka captured attention with her bold entrance and a strong three set victory. From calm dominance to raw emotion and fresh faces, day three (Jan 20) offered a mix of style, grit, and memorable tennis moments on the biggest stage.
Osaka steals the spotlight on Rod Laver Arena
Osaka walked onto the court holding a white parasol, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and veil, and the crowd instantly reacted. The look was inspired by a jellyfish, she later said, and it set the tone for a special night. Against Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic, Osaka started fast, using her power from the baseline and sharp returns to take the first set.
Also read | Jannik Sinner says 'not the way to win a match' after advancing to R2 of Australian Open 2026
Ruzic fought back in the second, testing Osaka with deep shots and steady defence. But the former champion stayed patient and raised her level in the decider. She broke at the right time, served with control, and closed the match 6 3, 3 6, 6 4. More than the fashion, it was her calm under pressure that stood out. The win showed she is finding rhythm again and remains a serious threat in Melbourne as she builds confidence quickly now.
Sinner cruises as emotions and surprises follow
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Sinner looked sharp from the first game against Hugo Gaston and controlled rallies with ease. The Frenchman, struggling with an abdominal problem, retired while trailing 6 2, 6 1. Sinner said it was not the way he wanted to win, but he was pleased with his start and focus.
There was emotion, too as Gael Monfils played what is expected to be his last match in Melbourne. The 39-year-old battled hard before losing to Australian qualifier Dane Sweeny in four sets. He received a standing ovation and thanked the crowd for an amazing ride. Elsewhere, Ben Shelton moved through in straight sets, Madison Keys survived a nervous opener, and Janice Tjen made history as the first Indonesian in 28 years to win a match at the Australian Open. It added another memorable chapter to a thrilling day in Melbourne.
