In pics: Highlights of Day 4 of the Australian Open

In pics: Highlights of Day 3 of the Australian Open

Garbine Muguruza claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 7-5 win over Johanna Konta early on Friday to reach the Australian Open third round and etch in her name into the record books as the winner of the latest starting match in the tournament's history.

With a log-jam in scheduling caused by two men's five-setters earlier on Thursday, 18th seed Muguruza and Briton Konta were kept from playing their first point until 12:30 am&nbsp;local time (1330 GMT) in front of a smattering of hardy fans at Margaret Court Arena.

The start was more than half an hour later than Daria Gavrilova and Elise Mertens's second-round match at last year's tournament, which began a minute before midnight.

At the end of a high-quality duel, former Wimbledon champion Muguruza pounced on Konta's serve at 6-5 in the deciding set, grabbing a match point with a backhand winner before forcing a forehand error to seal the win.

"I mean, I seriously can't believe there are people watching us at 3:15. Like who cares?," twice Grand Slam champion Muguruza said on court.

"Very tough (match), I think Johanna was also playing very good.

"We play for you guys otherwise why are we here, for what?" Muguruza told the few remaining fans in the terraces.

While the two-hour 42-minute match did not wrap up until 3:12 a.m., it was still well off the record for the latest finish.

Australian Lleyton Hewitt's third-round win over Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis at the 2008 tournament lasted until 4:34 a.m.

Muguruza will play Swiss Timea Bacsinszky for a place in the fourth round.

Garbine Muguruza claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 7-5 win over Johanna Konta early on Friday to reach the Australian Open third round and etch in her name into the record books as the winner of the latest starting match in the tournament's history.

Garbine Muguruza claimed a 6-4 7-6(3) 7-5 win over Johanna Konta early on Friday to reach the Australian Open third round and etch in her name into the record books as the winner of the latest starting match in the tournament's history. With a log-jam in scheduling caused by two men's five-setters earlier on Thursday, 18th seed Muguruza and Briton Konta were kept from playing their first point until 12:30 am local time (1330 GMT) in front of a smattering of hardy fans at Margaret Court Arena. The start was more than half an hour later than Daria Gavrilova and Elise Mertens's second-round match at last year's tournament, which began a minute before midnight. At the end of a high-quality duel, former Wimbledon champion Muguruza pounced on Konta's serve at 6-5 in the deciding set, grabbing a match point with a backhand winner before forcing a forehand error to seal the win. "I mean, I seriously can't believe there are people watching us at 3:15. Like who cares?," twice Grand Slam champion Muguruza said on court. "Very tough (match), I think Johanna was also playing very good. "We play for you guys otherwise why are we here, for what?" Muguruza told the few remaining fans in the terraces. While the two-hour 42-minute match did not wrap up until 3:12 a.m., it was still well off the record for the latest finish. Australian Lleyton Hewitt's third-round win over Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis at the 2008 tournament lasted until 4:34 a.m. Muguruza will play Swiss Timea Bacsinszky for a place in the fourth round.

Australian Open: Muguruza enters third round after defeating Konta

Eleven years after beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win the 2008 Australian Open title, top seed Novak Djokovic bested the Frenchman again at Melbourne Park to reach the third round early on Friday.

The world number one Serb claimed a clinical 6-3 7-5 6-4 win over wildcard Tsonga at Rod Laver Arena, a match that finished after midnight and failed to live up to the players' intriguing rivalry at the year's first Grand Slam.

A 20-year-old Djokovic edged a fourth-set tiebreak to claim his maiden Grand Slam crown in 2008 against then 22-year-old Tsonga.

Two years later, the Frenchman turned the tables in a five-set classic in the 2010 quarter-finals, crushing Djokovic's hopes of a second Melbourne trophy.

The players have had a different trajectory since the swashbuckling days of their early twenties but the gap has grown much wider in the past year.

While 31-year-old Djokovic is seeking a third successive Grand Slam title and a record seventh Australian Open crown, Tsonga's ranking has slipped to 177th after his 2018 season was cut short by knee surgery in April.

The gap was on full show as Djokovic cruised to victory in just over two hours, setting up a mouth-watering inter-generational clash with Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov.

Yet there was still enough of the old magic on show from the burly Tsonga, whose 33-year-old legs scrambled hard to set up the shot of the night, a stunning forehand winner down the line from around the net.

Djokovic said he was a "a bit more nervy" than usual playing against Tsonga, even if plenty of seats were vacant at centre court, with the late hour caused by a scheduling logjam.

"Playing on the centre stage against Jo, who I consider one of the greatest rivals that I had throughout my life, my career," said Djokovic.

"Because of his injuries, he dropped his ranking, but the ranking is definitely not showing the right picture of his quality.

"I'm glad to see him playing. I hope that he can get back where he deserves: at the top of the tennis game."

Shapovalov is only 19 but very highly regarded. The Canadian said he would be studying up on fellow left-hander Rafa Nadal's game in a bid to compete with the Serbian 14-times Grand Slam champion.

"Good," shrugged Djokovic. "Everyone has access to YouTube. Doesn't worry me at all... Nadal and him, yes, I mean, the only thing they're sharing I think is the left hand.

"I don't think they share many similarities in their game. I think it's quite different."

Eleven years after beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win the 2008 Australian Open title, top seed Novak Djokovic bested the Frenchman again at Melbourne Park to reach the third round early on Friday.

Eleven years after beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win the 2008 Australian Open title, top seed Novak Djokovic bested the Frenchman again at Melbourne Park to reach the third round early on Friday. The world number one Serb claimed a clinical 6-3 7-5 6-4 win over wildcard Tsonga at Rod Laver Arena, a match that finished after midnight and failed to live up to the players' intriguing rivalry at the year's first Grand Slam. A 20-year-old Djokovic edged a fourth-set tiebreak to claim his maiden Grand Slam crown in 2008 against then 22-year-old Tsonga. Two years later, the Frenchman turned the tables in a five-set classic in the 2010 quarter-finals, crushing Djokovic's hopes of a second Melbourne trophy. The players have had a different trajectory since the swashbuckling days of their early twenties but the gap has grown much wider in the past year. While 31-year-old Djokovic is seeking a third successive Grand Slam title and a record seventh Australian Open crown, Tsonga's ranking has slipped to 177th after his 2018 season was cut short by knee surgery in April. The gap was on full show as Djokovic cruised to victory in just over two hours, setting up a mouth-watering inter-generational clash with Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov. Yet there was still enough of the old magic on show from the burly Tsonga, whose 33-year-old legs scrambled hard to set up the shot of the night, a stunning forehand winner down the line from around the net. Djokovic said he was a "a bit more nervy" than usual playing against Tsonga, even if plenty of seats were vacant at centre court, with the late hour caused by a scheduling logjam. "Playing on the centre stage against Jo, who I consider one of the greatest rivals that I had throughout my life, my career," said Djokovic. "Because of his injuries, he dropped his ranking, but the ranking is definitely not showing the right picture of his quality. "I'm glad to see him playing. I hope that he can get back where he deserves: at the top of the tennis game." Shapovalov is only 19 but very highly regarded. The Canadian said he would be studying up on fellow left-hander Rafa Nadal's game in a bid to compete with the Serbian 14-times Grand Slam champion. "Good," shrugged Djokovic. "Everyone has access to YouTube. Doesn't worry me at all... Nadal and him, yes, I mean, the only thing they're sharing I think is the left hand. "I don't think they share many similarities in their game. I think it's quite different."

Australian Open: Djokovic dominates Tsonga re-match to reach third round

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Easily beaten in the first set, the Canadian Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist who has been trying to retrieve her stellar form of five years ago, pressed early in the second to lead two games to one.&nbsp;

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Ever wondered where <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> keeps ALL her trophies - especially the one that <a href="https://twitter.com/Venuseswilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Venuseswilliams</a> gave to her at eight years of age? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/5ncbSbnDNo">pic.twitter.com/5ncbSbnDNo</a>
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A <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> victory dance 💃✌️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/ndrEIv1Omp">pic.twitter.com/ndrEIv1Omp</a>
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Williams responded in dominant fashion, however, and did not drop another game on her way to ending the match with a drive-volley winner.&nbsp;

The American is vying for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, and will play Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.&nbsp;

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open.

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open. Easily beaten in the first set, the Canadian Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist who has been trying to retrieve her stellar form of five years ago, pressed early in the second to lead two games to one. Ever wondered where @serenawilliams keeps ALL her trophies - especially the one that @Venuseswilliams gave to her at eight years of age? 🤔#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/5ncbSbnDNo — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × A @serenawilliams victory dance 💃✌️#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/ndrEIv1Omp — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × Williams responded in dominant fashion, however, and did not drop another game on her way to ending the match with a drive-volley winner. The American is vying for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, and will play Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.

Australian Open: Serena Williams comfortably beats Bouchard to enter third round

World number one Simona Halep entered the third round of Australian Open on Thursday after defeating&nbsp;Sofia Kenin&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;

The Romanian top seed,&nbsp;set up&nbsp;a mouth-watering clash with seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams.&nbsp;

Although she was pushed to the limit by unseeded Sofia Kenin over three sets that lasted for&nbsp;two-and-a-half hours.&nbsp;

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Into her 5th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 3R, <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> thanks the heavens above. <a href="https://t.co/a4ErRUNb9g">pic.twitter.com/a4ErRUNb9g</a>
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Halep broke the 20-year-old Kenin twice in the first set but the American fought back in the second set from 3-0 down to level it at 1-1 in the tiebreaker.&nbsp;

Halep then got the crucial break in the third set to go up 5-4 and converted her second match point for the victory in two hours and 31 minutes.&nbsp;

Halep, who was on a five-match losing streak before the Australian Open, set up a third-round meeting against multiple Grand Slam winner Williams, who beat Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 6-3, 4-6, 6-0.&nbsp;

World number one Simona Halep entered the third round of Australian Open on Thursday after defeating Sofia Kenin at the Rod Laver Arena. The Romanian top seed, set up a mouth-watering clash with seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams.

World number one Simona Halep entered the third round of Australian Open on Thursday after defeating Sofia Kenin at the Rod Laver Arena. The Romanian top seed, set up a mouth-watering clash with seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams. Although she was pushed to the limit by unseeded Sofia Kenin over three sets that lasted for two-and-a-half hours. 🙏 Into her 5th #AusOpen 3R, @Simona_Halep thanks the heavens above. pic.twitter.com/a4ErRUNb9g — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × Halep broke the 20-year-old Kenin twice in the first set but the American fought back in the second set from 3-0 down to level it at 1-1 in the tiebreaker. Halep then got the crucial break in the third set to go up 5-4 and converted her second match point for the victory in two hours and 31 minutes. Halep, who was on a five-match losing streak before the Australian Open, set up a third-round meeting against multiple Grand Slam winner Williams, who beat Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 6-3, 4-6, 6-0.

Australian Open: Simona Halep enters third round after defeating impressive Kenin

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams made a late charge into the Australian Open third round Thursday, grinding out a win in her second three-set victory of the tournament.

The unseeded 38-year-old American came back strongly to beat Alize Cornet of France 6-3, 4-6, 6-0, setting up a meeting with top seed Simona Halep.

Williams, who played her first Australian Open in 1998, said she drew energy from the Melbourne Park crowd in the deciding set against world number 36 Cornet.

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Sassy Venus 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/b1O2SOLPIF">pic.twitter.com/b1O2SOLPIF</a>
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"The first two sets were so tough and in the second I felt I was controlling the points but just falling a little bit short," she said.

"So I tried to do the same (in the third set) and not fall a little bit short. It worked out."

The veteran has reached the final at Melbourne Park twice, most recently in 2017 when she lost to sister Serena.

The siblings could meet again in the quarter-finals if results go their way.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams made a late charge into the Australian Open third round Thursday, grinding out a win in her second three-set victory of the tournament.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams made a late charge into the Australian Open third round Thursday, grinding out a win in her second three-set victory of the tournament. The unseeded 38-year-old American came back strongly to beat Alize Cornet of France 6-3, 4-6, 6-0, setting up a meeting with top seed Simona Halep. Williams, who played her first Australian Open in 1998, said she drew energy from the Melbourne Park crowd in the deciding set against world number 36 Cornet. Sassy Venus 😉#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/b1O2SOLPIF — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × "The first two sets were so tough and in the second I felt I was controlling the points but just falling a little bit short," she said. "So I tried to do the same (in the third set) and not fall a little bit short. It worked out." The veteran has reached the final at Melbourne Park twice, most recently in 2017 when she lost to sister Serena. The siblings could meet again in the quarter-finals if results go their way.

Australian Open: Venus Williams defeats Alize Cornet to enter third round

Britain's Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is keen on working with Andy Murray, when the Scot calls time on his career, to transform and develop British tennis to produce more top 100 players in the next five years, according to a media report.

Murray, who was knocked out in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday, has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-criticises-lta-for-failing-to-make-the-most-of-his-success-190769">criticised the sport's national governing body</a> for failing to grow the game over the last decade and not capitalising on his success.

In the wake of Murray's comments, new LTA chief executive Scott Lloyd told the Daily Telegraph he wanted to address the twice Wimbledon champion's concerns.

"We all want the same thing; to build on Andy's amazing achievements and ensure his success delivers a thriving legacy," Lloyd said.

"We have had some very exciting conversations with Andy's team and (his mother) Judy around, in particular, how we might go about developing a schools programme. We have equally acknowledged that Andy to date has had to focus on his career.

"As Andy mentioned, to really get children into our sport at the earliest possible age, and through a schools' programme would be fantastic. We are absolutely ready when he is to move something like that forward."

Performance director Simon Timson said the LTA was committed to long-term player development as part of a 10-year strategy that includes a new player pathway, a series of grassroots initiatives and the potential "Murray Legacy" schools programme.

"We will always welcome Andy's involvement with programmes and players. He is an iconic and inspirational figure – a beacon for what British tennis players can achieve," Timson said.

"The first five years, we wanted to support five new British players to break into the world's top 100. Katie Boulter (ranked 97) has already done it. We want to help four more get there by 2023."

Britain's Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is keen on working with Andy Murray, when the Scot calls time on his career, to transform and develop British tennis to produce more top 100 players in the next five years, according to a media report.

Britain's Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is keen on working with Andy Murray, when the Scot calls time on his career, to transform and develop British tennis to produce more top 100 players in the next five years, according to a media report. Murray, who was knocked out in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday, has criticised the sport's national governing body for failing to grow the game over the last decade and not capitalising on his success. In the wake of Murray's comments, new LTA chief executive Scott Lloyd told the Daily Telegraph he wanted to address the twice Wimbledon champion's concerns. "We all want the same thing; to build on Andy's amazing achievements and ensure his success delivers a thriving legacy," Lloyd said. "We have had some very exciting conversations with Andy's team and (his mother) Judy around, in particular, how we might go about developing a schools programme. We have equally acknowledged that Andy to date has had to focus on his career. "As Andy mentioned, to really get children into our sport at the earliest possible age, and through a schools' programme would be fantastic. We are absolutely ready when he is to move something like that forward." Performance director Simon Timson said the LTA was committed to long-term player development as part of a 10-year strategy that includes a new player pathway, a series of grassroots initiatives and the potential "Murray Legacy" schools programme. "We will always welcome Andy's involvement with programmes and players. He is an iconic and inspirational figure – a beacon for what British tennis players can achieve," Timson said. "The first five years, we wanted to support five new British players to break into the world's top 100. Katie Boulter (ranked 97) has already done it. We want to help four more get there by 2023."

LTA keen to work with Andy Murray to develop British tennis

Australian Open fifth seed Kevin Anderson lost his second round match to Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 in a major upset on the third day of the Grand Slam on Wednesday.

The Wimbledon finalist took a medical time-out midway through the four-set match before becoming the highest ranked player to be ousted from the first major of the year.

After sealing match point against the South African, Tiafoe slapped his right bicep, thumped his chest and roared at the terraces.

"It means the world to me, I lost to Kevin three times last year. I would love to get to the second week of a Slam and if you guys get behind me like you did again, then it's going to be pretty easy for me," Tiafoe said.

American Tiafoe, ranked 39 in the world, will play Italy's Andreas Seppi in the third round, which will at least equal his best performance at a Grand Slam, having made the third round of Wimbledon last year.

Australian Open fifth seed Kevin Anderson lost his second round match to Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 in a major upset on the third day of the Grand Slam on Wednesday.

Australian Open fifth seed Kevin Anderson lost his second round match to Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 in a major upset on the third day of the Grand Slam on Wednesday. The Wimbledon finalist took a medical time-out midway through the four-set match before becoming the highest ranked player to be ousted from the first major of the year. After sealing match point against the South African, Tiafoe slapped his right bicep, thumped his chest and roared at the terraces. "It means the world to me, I lost to Kevin three times last year. I would love to get to the second week of a Slam and if you guys get behind me like you did again, then it's going to be pretty easy for me," Tiafoe said. American Tiafoe, ranked 39 in the world, will play Italy's Andreas Seppi in the third round, which will at least equal his best performance at a Grand Slam, having made the third round of Wimbledon last year.

Kevin Anderson knocked out of Australian Open in four sets

Defending champion Roger Federer reached the Australian Open third round after defeating for a 20th straight year on Wednesday.&nbsp;

But the Swiss master was made to battle all the way by Britain's Dan Evans before winning 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

Having thrashed Denis Istomin in his Melbourne Park opener, third seed Federer encountered far stiffer resistance against the determined world number 189 Evans, who is rebuilding his career after missing a year due to a doping suspension.

Evans broke Federer for the first time in the tournament to drag the second set into a tiebreak but the Swiss was supreme on the clutch points at Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;

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The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who is going for a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row, had breezed past Denis Istomin in the first round, but was given a much tougher examination by the world number 189.&nbsp;

He broke Evans in the fourth game of the third set and closed out the match with an imperious backhand winner down the line to set up a clash with either Gael Monfils or Taylor Fritz.

Defending champion Roger Federer reached the Australian Open third round after defeating for a 20th straight year on Wednesday. But the Swiss master was made to battle all the way by Britain's Dan Evans before winning 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

Defending champion Roger Federer reached the Australian Open third round after defeating for a 20th straight year on Wednesday. But the Swiss master was made to battle all the way by Britain's Dan Evans before winning 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. Having thrashed Denis Istomin in his Melbourne Park opener, third seed Federer encountered far stiffer resistance against the determined world number 189 Evans, who is rebuilding his career after missing a year due to a doping suspension. Evans broke Federer for the first time in the tournament to drag the second set into a tiebreak but the Swiss was supreme on the clutch points at Rod Laver Arena. An #AusOpen 2R specialist ✌️@rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/VjRxAtU7bZ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2019 × The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who is going for a record seventh Melbourne Park title and third in a row, had breezed past Denis Istomin in the first round, but was given a much tougher examination by the world number 189. He broke Evans in the fourth game of the third set and closed out the match with an imperious backhand winner down the line to set up a clash with either Gael Monfils or Taylor Fritz.

Roger Federer through to Australian Open third round

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies.&nbsp;

The top three seeds at Melbourne Park raffled all four of the majors between them last year, with Federer winning his sixth Australian Open, Nadal claiming his 11th French Open and world number one Djokovic sweeping Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open.&nbsp;

The Swiss master is bidding for his 21st Grand Slam crown and a hat-trick of Melbourne titles this year, and he sailed into the third round on Wednesday with a straight sets win over British qualifier Dan Evans.

Before the tournament, top seed Djokovic declared the three should be favourites to win the Slams, and Federer agreed when asked after his Evans match.

"Yes, I guess so," the third seed told reporters.

"I mean, look, I think we know how to win Slams, Novak, Rafa, myself. I mean, Rafa has to be the number one favourite, I don't care how he feels, before the French.

"Novak is always a favourite on the hard courts, basically any court if he's feeling 100 percent, if he plays like last year.

"Maybe just because of my amount of titles I have at Wimbledon and other places, maybe also have to put me in the mix every time, as well."

The last time a player not named Federer, Djokovic or Nadal won a Grand Slam was at the 2016 US&nbsp;Open where Swiss Stan Wawrinka claimed his third Grand Slam trophy.

Pundits have decried the younger generation's failure to break into the Grand Slam cartel enjoyed by the old guard but have some tipped change at the top this year.

The 21-year-old Alexander Zverev, who claimed the ATP Tour Finals and is seeded fourth in Melbourne, is often touted as the player most likely to upset the apple cart but has only a solitary Grand Slam quarter-final to his name, at Roland Garros last year.

"There are other guys, no doubt about it," said 37-year-old Federer, who will play American Taylor Fritz in the third round.

"I think also with Sascha (Zverev) holding the World Tour Finals, I think it's fair to say that even though he has not ripped through those Slams yet, he will go deep this year definitely at one of them.

"Maybe even here. We'll see."

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies.

Roger Federer has given cold comfort to the next generation of men's players hoping for Grand Slam glory, saying he, Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal are still deserving favourites to claim the game's biggest trophies. The top three seeds at Melbourne Park raffled all four of the majors between them last year, with Federer winning his sixth Australian Open, Nadal claiming his 11th French Open and world number one Djokovic sweeping Wimbledon and the US Open. The Swiss master is bidding for his 21st Grand Slam crown and a hat-trick of Melbourne titles this year, and he sailed into the third round on Wednesday with a straight sets win over British qualifier Dan Evans. Before the tournament, top seed Djokovic declared the three should be favourites to win the Slams, and Federer agreed when asked after his Evans match. "Yes, I guess so," the third seed told reporters. "I mean, look, I think we know how to win Slams, Novak, Rafa, myself. I mean, Rafa has to be the number one favourite, I don't care how he feels, before the French. "Novak is always a favourite on the hard courts, basically any court if he's feeling 100 percent, if he plays like last year. "Maybe just because of my amount of titles I have at Wimbledon and other places, maybe also have to put me in the mix every time, as well." The last time a player not named Federer, Djokovic or Nadal won a Grand Slam was at the 2016 US Open where Swiss Stan Wawrinka claimed his third Grand Slam trophy. Pundits have decried the younger generation's failure to break into the Grand Slam cartel enjoyed by the old guard but have some tipped change at the top this year. The 21-year-old Alexander Zverev, who claimed the ATP Tour Finals and is seeded fourth in Melbourne, is often touted as the player most likely to upset the apple cart but has only a solitary Grand Slam quarter-final to his name, at Roland Garros last year. "There are other guys, no doubt about it," said 37-year-old Federer, who will play American Taylor Fritz in the third round. "I think also with Sascha (Zverev) holding the World Tour Finals, I think it's fair to say that even though he has not ripped through those Slams yet, he will go deep this year definitely at one of them. "Maybe even here. We'll see."

Djokovic, Nadal and I know how to win Grand Slams: Roger Federer

A dominant Rafael Nadal overwhelmed Australia's Matthew Ebden in straight sets to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday and stay on track for an 18th Grand Slam title.&nbsp;

The Spaniard, who cut short his 2018 season to have surgery on a foot injury, raced through the tie in just 116 minutes.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old's newly remodelled serve only briefly came under pressure from Ebden, 31, who enjoyed vociferous home support on Rod Laver Arena before losing 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.&nbsp;

The Australian forced three break points at 3-2 in the first set, but could convert none before the second seed reeled off four games in a row to close it out in 35 minutes.&nbsp;

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It was one-way traffic from then on as Nadal, sporting a trademark sleeveless shirt, cruised into the last 32.

"I played a solid match, I was happy with the way I served. I did a few things very well," said Nadal, who next plays Australian 27th seed Alex de Minaur. "It is an honour to play here. Was a great atmosphere."

Nadal pulled out of his Brisbane warm-up event two weeks ago with a thigh strain but showed no sign of the injury woes that saw him limp out of both the Australian Open and US Open last year.

"I don't know if it's that good," said Nadal modestly after a dominant performance. "I just came back from injury so it is not easy to evaluate yet."

He is bidding to become the first man in the Open era, and only third in history along with Roy Emerson and Rod Laver, to win each Grand Slam on two or more occasions.

A dominant Rafael Nadal overwhelmed Australia's Matthew Ebden in straight sets to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday and stay on track for an 18th Grand Slam title.

A dominant Rafael Nadal overwhelmed Australia's Matthew Ebden in straight sets to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday and stay on track for an 18th Grand Slam title. The Spaniard, who cut short his 2018 season to have surgery on a foot injury, raced through the tie in just 116 minutes. The 32-year-old's newly remodelled serve only briefly came under pressure from Ebden, 31, who enjoyed vociferous home support on Rod Laver Arena before losing 6-3, 6-2, 6-2. The Australian forced three break points at 3-2 in the first set, but could convert none before the second seed reeled off four games in a row to close it out in 35 minutes. "If things are working, don't change it." Life lessons with @RafaelNadal 💬#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/YpqopxICN4 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2019 × It was one-way traffic from then on as Nadal, sporting a trademark sleeveless shirt, cruised into the last 32. "I played a solid match, I was happy with the way I served. I did a few things very well," said Nadal, who next plays Australian 27th seed Alex de Minaur. "It is an honour to play here. Was a great atmosphere." Nadal pulled out of his Brisbane warm-up event two weeks ago with a thigh strain but showed no sign of the injury woes that saw him limp out of both the Australian Open and US Open last year. "I don't know if it's that good," said Nadal modestly after a dominant performance. "I just came back from injury so it is not easy to evaluate yet." He is bidding to become the first man in the Open era, and only third in history along with Roy Emerson and Rod Laver, to win each Grand Slam on two or more occasions.

Rafael Nadal overwhelms Aussie Matthew Ebden to enter 3rd round

Andy Murray has criticised Britain's Lawn Tennis Association for failing to build on his success and grow the game over the last decade.

Three-times Grand Slam champion Murray <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-out-of-australian-open-after-five-set-thriller-190245">went out of the Australian Open</a> in the first round on Monday, and said the match could be the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-andy-murray-breaks-down-at-press-conference-as-he-announces-intention-to-retire-189518">last of his professional career</a> due to pain in his right hip.

The 31-year-old Scot has been hailed as one of Britain's greatest sportsmen, a double Olympic gold medallist who in 2013 also became the first British man to win a Wimbledon singles title in 77 years.

"I'm not sure Britain has really capitalised on the last seven or eight years of success we've had," the BBC quoted the former world number one as saying.

"Whether it be myself, my brother, Jo (Konta), Kyle (Edmund), the Davis Cup, those sorts of things, I'm not sure how much we've done there," added Murray, who has been critical of the LTA in the past.

"Maybe it's something I should have given more thought to while I was playing but I never felt that was my job to do that."

Murray said he could not understand how the number of people playing tennis had dropped over the past decade despite unprecedented success.

"I know in Scotland that there have not been many indoor courts built in the last 10 years. That seems madness. I don't understand why that is. You need to get kids playing; you need to have the facilities that allow them to do that," he said.

Older brother Jamie echoed the concern to British media as he prepared to start his Australian Open doubles campaign on Thursday.

"My greatest worry was that he would stop one day... and you would look around the country and there wouldn't be much to show for it. And if you go around the country you probably see that," he said.

"And that is sad because how on earth are you going to grow a sport if you can't do it when you've got one of the biggest stars in tennis for the last 10 years, and one of Britain's most prominent sportspeople?".

Andy Murray has criticised Britain's Lawn Tennis Association for failing to build on his success and grow the game over the last decade. Three-times Grand Slam champion Murray went out of the Australian Open in the first round on Monday, and said the match could be the last of his professional career due to pain in his right hip.

Andy Murray has criticised Britain's Lawn Tennis Association for failing to build on his success and grow the game over the last decade. Three-times Grand Slam champion Murray went out of the Australian Open in the first round on Monday, and said the match could be the last of his professional career due to pain in his right hip. The 31-year-old Scot has been hailed as one of Britain's greatest sportsmen, a double Olympic gold medallist who in 2013 also became the first British man to win a Wimbledon singles title in 77 years. "I'm not sure Britain has really capitalised on the last seven or eight years of success we've had," the BBC quoted the former world number one as saying. "Whether it be myself, my brother, Jo (Konta), Kyle (Edmund), the Davis Cup, those sorts of things, I'm not sure how much we've done there," added Murray, who has been critical of the LTA in the past. "Maybe it's something I should have given more thought to while I was playing but I never felt that was my job to do that." Murray said he could not understand how the number of people playing tennis had dropped over the past decade despite unprecedented success. "I know in Scotland that there have not been many indoor courts built in the last 10 years. That seems madness. I don't understand why that is. You need to get kids playing; you need to have the facilities that allow them to do that," he said. Older brother Jamie echoed the concern to British media as he prepared to start his Australian Open doubles campaign on Thursday. "My greatest worry was that he would stop one day... and you would look around the country and there wouldn't be much to show for it. And if you go around the country you probably see that," he said. "And that is sad because how on earth are you going to grow a sport if you can't do it when you've got one of the biggest stars in tennis for the last 10 years, and one of Britain's most prominent sportspeople?".

Andy Murray criticises LTA for failing to make the most of his success

Petra Kvitova advanced to the third round of the Australian Open for the first time in four years, routing Irina-Camelia Begu in straight sets on Wednesday. 
 
The eighth seed downed her Romanian opponent 6-1, 6-3 in one hour and nine minutes. 
 
The Czech, who holds a tour-leading six titles, slammed 26 winners and dropped serve only once to make it to the last 32 in Melbourne for the first time since 2015. 
 
Kvitova played a sharp game, including a forceful forehand return that prevented her opponent from closing out her first service game at 40-15. 
 
She also played a power-packed final game, seizing the first match point with a sizzling inside-out forehand winner. 
 
Kvitova will face-off former world number 7 Belinda Bencic, who beat Yulia Putintseva 7-5, 4-6, 6-2.

Petra Kvitova advanced to the third round of the Australian Open for the first time in four years, routing Irina-Camelia Begu in straight sets on Wednesday. The eighth seed downed her Romanian opponent 6-1, 6-3 in one hour and nine minutes.

Petra Kvitova advanced to the third round of the Australian Open for the first time in four years, routing Irina-Camelia Begu in straight sets on Wednesday. The eighth seed downed her Romanian opponent 6-1, 6-3 in one hour and nine minutes. The Czech, who holds a tour-leading six titles, slammed 26 winners and dropped serve only once to make it to the last 32 in Melbourne for the first time since 2015. Kvitova played a sharp game, including a forceful forehand return that prevented her opponent from closing out her first service game at 40-15. She also played a power-packed final game, seizing the first match point with a sizzling inside-out forehand winner. Kvitova will face-off former world number 7 Belinda Bencic, who beat Yulia Putintseva 7-5, 4-6, 6-2.

Petra Kvitova beats Begu to reach round 3 of Australian Open

As Australia sizzles, 'Serena-tard' clashes with tennis dress code

Aggressive defending champion Caroline Wozniacki powered into the Australian Open third round Wednesday with a confidence-boosting romp over Sweden's Johanna Larsson.

The third-seeded Dane snuffed out a late rally from the world number 77 to win 6-1, 6-3 and continue her bid to become the first woman to defend the Australian title since Victoria Azarenka in 2013.

The victory sets up the potential for an enthralling third round encounter between the Dane and Maria Sharapova, who meets Rebecca Peterson in the second round.

Wozniacki moved freely and showed no sign of the rheumatoid arthritis that has threatened to derail her career.

"I thought I started pretty well, started aggressively, but she started making less errors and I was just trying to stay consistent," the 28-year-old said.

Wozniacki came out of the blocks quickly, leaving Larsson reeling as she conceded only two points on the way to a 3-0 lead.&nbsp;

The Swede regrouped from the early onslaught but Wozniacki continued to dictate terms and showed no signs of fatigue as she moved Larsson around the court during long rallies.

She wrapped up the first set in 27 minutes, pouncing on Larsson's popgun serve and coping easily when the Swede tried to put her under pressure by attacking the net, making 95 per cent of her returns.&nbsp;

Wozniacki's intensity eased slightly in the second set and there was a minor wobble late in the match when Larsson threatened a break.

"She started making less errors, playing it deep, coming into the net and threw my timing off a little bit," she said.

"I just tried to stay as aggressive as I could be until the and&nbsp;I think I served well when I had to."

Wozniacki said she felt no additional pressure coming into the tournament as defending champion and was enjoying her campaign after two straight sets wins in the opening rounds.

"It feels amazing. I felt at home straight away when I got here," she said.

Aggressive defending champion Caroline Wozniacki powered into the Australian Open third round Wednesday with a confidence-boosting romp over Sweden's Johanna Larsson.

Aggressive defending champion Caroline Wozniacki powered into the Australian Open third round Wednesday with a confidence-boosting romp over Sweden's Johanna Larsson. The third-seeded Dane snuffed out a late rally from the world number 77 to win 6-1, 6-3 and continue her bid to become the first woman to defend the Australian title since Victoria Azarenka in 2013. The victory sets up the potential for an enthralling third round encounter between the Dane and Maria Sharapova, who meets Rebecca Peterson in the second round. Wozniacki moved freely and showed no sign of the rheumatoid arthritis that has threatened to derail her career. "I thought I started pretty well, started aggressively, but she started making less errors and I was just trying to stay consistent," the 28-year-old said. Wozniacki came out of the blocks quickly, leaving Larsson reeling as she conceded only two points on the way to a 3-0 lead. The Swede regrouped from the early onslaught but Wozniacki continued to dictate terms and showed no signs of fatigue as she moved Larsson around the court during long rallies. She wrapped up the first set in 27 minutes, pouncing on Larsson's popgun serve and coping easily when the Swede tried to put her under pressure by attacking the net, making 95 per cent of her returns. Wozniacki's intensity eased slightly in the second set and there was a minor wobble late in the match when Larsson threatened a break. "She started making less errors, playing it deep, coming into the net and threw my timing off a little bit," she said. "I just tried to stay as aggressive as I could be until the and I think I served well when I had to." Wozniacki said she felt no additional pressure coming into the tournament as defending champion and was enjoying her campaign after two straight sets wins in the opening rounds. "It feels amazing. I felt at home straight away when I got here," she said.

Caroline Wozniacki storms into 3rd round, may meet Maria Sharapova in next round

Germany's Alexander Zverev overpowered Aljaz Bedene to win their first-round match 6-4 6-1 6-4 &nbsp;at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

Zverev, who is considered a title contender, went down a break midway through the first set, which seemed to prod him into action. He won the next eight games, and Bedene never recovered.

Zverev will play the winner of an all-French first-round match between Jeremy Chardy and Ugo Humbert.

Zverev emerged as the leader of tennis' new generation of men's players after his maiden ATP Finals triumph last year where he defeated Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in consecutive days. 
&nbsp;

Germany's Alexander Zverev overpowered Aljaz Bedene to win their first-round match 6-4 6-1 6-4 at the Australian Open on Tuesday. Zverev, who is considered a title contender, went down a break midway through the first set, which seemed to prod him into action.

Germany's Alexander Zverev overpowered Aljaz Bedene to win their first-round match 6-4 6-1 6-4 at the Australian Open on Tuesday. Zverev, who is considered a title contender, went down a break midway through the first set, which seemed to prod him into action. He won the next eight games, and Bedene never recovered. Zverev will play the winner of an all-French first-round match between Jeremy Chardy and Ugo Humbert. Zverev emerged as the leader of tennis' new generation of men's players after his maiden ATP Finals triumph last year where he defeated Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in consecutive days.

Australian Open: Alexander Zverev overpowers Bedene to move into second round

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days.&nbsp;On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-returns-to-australian-open-with-emphatic-win-defeats-tatjana-maria-in-straight-sets-190342">tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open.</a>

Williams, who won the 2017 Open while she was pregnant with her first child, appeared in a sporty turquoise Nike romper with white and black stripes.

According to a statement from Nike, which also sponsors Australian Nick Kyrgios, the Australian Open collection "takes inspiration from early Nike Tennis DNA... This look was made iconic by Andre Agassi in the '90s".

In his playing days, Agassi, who coaches Bulgarian 20th-seed Grigor Dimitrov, made bold on-court choices including denim shorts and neon colours, with the exception of Wimbledon, which has a strict white dress code.

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Speeding through 🏃‍♀️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/tNl9kmFdUT">pic.twitter.com/tNl9kmFdUT</a>
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Tennis world and the fans inside Rod Laver Arena certainly liked her new look and roared with delight at the reveal.

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Serena Williams back in Melbourne and her new outfit gets a roar of approval inside RLA.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OmnisportNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OmnisportNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/UoMpMYod6D">pic.twitter.com/UoMpMYod6D</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Serena?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Serena</a> always stirs the fashion milkshake. Here she sports a stunning green bodysuits with interesting mesh stockings.
— INSIDE TENNIS (@BillSimons1) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillSimons1/status/1084991729948708864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Serena gave that hair some volume😀😀 but waiting to see what looks like a new green outfit. 👗👗🤔🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a>
— Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) <a href="https://twitter.com/julietbawuah/status/1084990303843610625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days. On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open.

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days. On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open. Williams, who won the 2017 Open while she was pregnant with her first child, appeared in a sporty turquoise Nike romper with white and black stripes. According to a statement from Nike, which also sponsors Australian Nick Kyrgios, the Australian Open collection "takes inspiration from early Nike Tennis DNA... This look was made iconic by Andre Agassi in the '90s". In his playing days, Agassi, who coaches Bulgarian 20th-seed Grigor Dimitrov, made bold on-court choices including denim shorts and neon colours, with the exception of Wimbledon, which has a strict white dress code. Speeding through 🏃‍♀️#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/tNl9kmFdUT — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2019 × Tennis world and the fans inside Rod Laver Arena certainly liked her new look and roared with delight at the reveal. Serena Williams back in Melbourne and her new outfit gets a roar of approval inside RLA.#AusOpen @OmnisportNews pic.twitter.com/UoMpMYod6D — Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) January 15, 2019 × #Serena always stirs the fashion milkshake. Here she sports a stunning green bodysuits with interesting mesh stockings. — INSIDE TENNIS (@BillSimons1) January 15, 2019 × Serena gave that hair some volume😀😀 but waiting to see what looks like a new green outfit. 👗👗🤔🤔 #AusOpen — Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) January 15, 2019 × Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

A look at Serena Williams 90s-inspired 'fashion milkshake' at Australian Open

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

While the German, Maria, struggled to settle and find her game but across the net, Williams had no such problems. Maria had no answers to Williams' powerful game for most parts of the match

Although Maria picked herself up in the second set, holding serve twice, it was way too late for her.

Williams pocketed the win on Maria's serve in the eighth game, on her second match point. She had high winning percentage margins both on her first and second serves – 82% and 88% respectively.&nbsp;

The former world no.1 converted five of the eight break points she had, and did not face a single break point on her own serve.&nbsp;

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round. While the German, Maria, struggled to settle and find her game but across the net, Williams had no such problems. Maria had no answers to Williams' powerful game for most parts of the match Although Maria picked herself up in the second set, holding serve twice, it was way too late for her. Williams pocketed the win on Maria's serve in the eighth game, on her second match point. She had high winning percentage margins both on her first and second serves – 82% and 88% respectively. The former world no.1 converted five of the eight break points she had, and did not face a single break point on her own serve.

Serena Williams returns to Australian Open with emphatic win, defeats Tatjana Maria in straight sets

Japan's Naomi Osaka clubbed her way into the Australian Open second round by beating Poland's Magda Linette 6-4 6-2 late on Tuesday.

It was Osaka's first Grand Slam match since her breakthrough US&nbsp;Open triumph last year, which was partly overshadowed by a row between her final opponent Serena Williams and umpire Carlos Ramos.

Osaka's heavy ball striking makes it very difficult for opponents to trade blows with her.

"For me, I'm aware of people saying anyone in the top 10 can be No. 1 right now - but for me, that's not really my goal," Osaka, the fourth seed, told reporters.

"I just want to play well in this tournament."

Linette tried to mitigate her rival's power by standing up near the baseline during rallies to avoid getting pushed too far back.

The tactic worked in part, until the Polish player's error count rose too quickly, such is the risk-reward for such a valiant ploy.

"The balls were really heavy," Linette told Reuters.

"I'm just like 59 kilos, so what can I do?"

Despite possessing more firepower in almost every facet of the game, Osaka's modest-paced second serve allowed her 80th-ranked opponent a strong opening into baseline exchanges.

The two players' average second serve speed was almost identical at around 125 kmh, which is significantly slower than the service speed of Williams, who is the standard bearer.

Osaka will play 21-year-old Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia in the second round.

Japan's Naomi Osaka clubbed her way into the Australian Open second round by beating Poland's Magda Linette 6-4 6-2 late on Tuesday. It was Osaka's first Grand Slam match since her breakthrough US Open triumph last year, which was partly overshadowed by a row between her final opponent Serena Williams and umpire Carlos Ramos.

Japan's Naomi Osaka clubbed her way into the Australian Open second round by beating Poland's Magda Linette 6-4 6-2 late on Tuesday. It was Osaka's first Grand Slam match since her breakthrough US Open triumph last year, which was partly overshadowed by a row between her final opponent Serena Williams and umpire Carlos Ramos. Osaka's heavy ball striking makes it very difficult for opponents to trade blows with her. "For me, I'm aware of people saying anyone in the top 10 can be No. 1 right now - but for me, that's not really my goal," Osaka, the fourth seed, told reporters. "I just want to play well in this tournament." Linette tried to mitigate her rival's power by standing up near the baseline during rallies to avoid getting pushed too far back. The tactic worked in part, until the Polish player's error count rose too quickly, such is the risk-reward for such a valiant ploy. "The balls were really heavy," Linette told Reuters. "I'm just like 59 kilos, so what can I do?" Despite possessing more firepower in almost every facet of the game, Osaka's modest-paced second serve allowed her 80th-ranked opponent a strong opening into baseline exchanges. The two players' average second serve speed was almost identical at around 125 kmh, which is significantly slower than the service speed of Williams, who is the standard bearer. Osaka will play 21-year-old Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia in the second round.

Naomi Osaka clubs her way into Australian Open second round

World number one Simona Halep came from behind to defeat Kaia Kanepi of Estonia.&nbsp;

The Romanian was one set down and had to&nbsp;dig deep against Kanepi, who defeated her in last year's US Open first round, for a 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 6-2 victory.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old was a finalist at Melbourne Park last year and will be looking for a major improvement to go deep in this year's tournament after such a shaky start.&nbsp;

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All smiles 😄 
 
Top seed <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> survives a tough 1R, def. Kanepi 6-7(2) 6-4 6-2.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/S5pnVyvgFb">pic.twitter.com/S5pnVyvgFb</a>
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Halep was without a coach and on a five-match losing streak coming into the year's first Grand Slam and had to make sure she kept her unforced errors to a minimum.

She broke Kanepi twice in the final set and sealed the match when her opponent sent a forehand wide for her 62nd unforced error. Halep will next play American Sofia Kenin, who earlier beat Russian qualifier Veronika Kudermetova 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

World number one Simona Halep came from behind to defeat Kaia Kanepi of Estonia. The Romanian was one set down and had to dig deep against Kanepi, who defeated her in last year's US Open first round, for a 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 6-2 victory.

World number one Simona Halep came from behind to defeat Kaia Kanepi of Estonia. The Romanian was one set down and had to dig deep against Kanepi, who defeated her in last year's US Open first round, for a 6-7 (2/7), 6-4, 6-2 victory. The 27-year-old was a finalist at Melbourne Park last year and will be looking for a major improvement to go deep in this year's tournament after such a shaky start. All smiles 😄 Top seed @Simona_Halep survives a tough 1R, def. Kanepi 6-7(2) 6-4 6-2.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/S5pnVyvgFb — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2019 × Halep was without a coach and on a five-match losing streak coming into the year's first Grand Slam and had to make sure she kept her unforced errors to a minimum. She broke Kanepi twice in the final set and sealed the match when her opponent sent a forehand wide for her 62nd unforced error. Halep will next play American Sofia Kenin, who earlier beat Russian qualifier Veronika Kudermetova 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

World No.1 Simona Halep survives scare to make Australian Open 2nd round

Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title in easy fashion Tuesday, crushing 230th-ranked American Mitchell Krueger 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena.

The world number one had reached the Australian Open second round for 13 consecutive years and that streak was never threatened by the qualifier, who was making his debut at Melbourne Park.

Djokovic, appearing in his 300th Grand Slam match, did drop his second service game to go 1-2 behind in the first set but broke back immediately and went on to record his 259th match win in a major against a gritty but outclassed opponent.

"Playing him for the first time I didn't know what to expect," said the Serbian top seed.&nbsp;

"He was very competitive and I had to work hard. I enjoyed it, hope you did too," he said.

Djokovic closed out last season magnificently, making an astonishing climb back from outside the world's top 20 in June, winning Wimbledon and the US Open on the way to reclaiming the number one ranking in November.

It was a stark contrast to the way he exited Melbourne a year ago at the hands of South Korea's Chung Hyeon in the last 16.&nbsp;

He then struggled as elbow surgery was followed by a string of poor results.

Djokovic will take a trip down memory lane next when he plays old foe Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the second round.&nbsp;

Frenchman Tsonga was on the losing side in the 2008 Australian Open final as Djokovic won his first of 14 Grand Slams.

"I have great respect for Jo," said Djokovic. "We will face each other again on this great court, hopefully. I am looking forward to it."

Former world number four Tsonga missed seven months of 2018 after knee surgery and needed a wildcard to get into the tournament after his ranking dropped outside the top 200.

But the unseeded 33-year-old, who has also reached five Grand Slam semi-finals in his career, will be a dangerous opponent, having enjoyed a run to the last four in his comeback tournament at Brisbane.

And Tsonga is one of only three players to have recorded wins against Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal while the they were ranked number one. The other two are Andy Murray and Juan Martin del Potro.

"If anyone has some advice how to play him, come and see me in my locker room," Djokovic joked.

Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title in easy fashion Tuesday, crushing 230th-ranked American Mitchell Krueger 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena.

Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title in easy fashion Tuesday, crushing 230th-ranked American Mitchell Krueger 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena. The world number one had reached the Australian Open second round for 13 consecutive years and that streak was never threatened by the qualifier, who was making his debut at Melbourne Park. Djokovic, appearing in his 300th Grand Slam match, did drop his second service game to go 1-2 behind in the first set but broke back immediately and went on to record his 259th match win in a major against a gritty but outclassed opponent. "Playing him for the first time I didn't know what to expect," said the Serbian top seed. "He was very competitive and I had to work hard. I enjoyed it, hope you did too," he said. Djokovic closed out last season magnificently, making an astonishing climb back from outside the world's top 20 in June, winning Wimbledon and the US Open on the way to reclaiming the number one ranking in November. It was a stark contrast to the way he exited Melbourne a year ago at the hands of South Korea's Chung Hyeon in the last 16. He then struggled as elbow surgery was followed by a string of poor results. Djokovic will take a trip down memory lane next when he plays old foe Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the second round. Frenchman Tsonga was on the losing side in the 2008 Australian Open final as Djokovic won his first of 14 Grand Slams. "I have great respect for Jo," said Djokovic. "We will face each other again on this great court, hopefully. I am looking forward to it." Former world number four Tsonga missed seven months of 2018 after knee surgery and needed a wildcard to get into the tournament after his ranking dropped outside the top 200. But the unseeded 33-year-old, who has also reached five Grand Slam semi-finals in his career, will be a dangerous opponent, having enjoyed a run to the last four in his comeback tournament at Brisbane. And Tsonga is one of only three players to have recorded wins against Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal while the they were ranked number one. The other two are Andy Murray and Juan Martin del Potro. "If anyone has some advice how to play him, come and see me in my locker room," Djokovic joked.

Novak Djokovic beats Mitchell Krueger to reach second round

Seventh seed Karolina Pliskova brushed aside fellow Czech Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-2 to reach the Australian Open second round on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old took just 69 minutes to defeat her compatriot.&nbsp;

"It's a good start, I'm happy I didn't have to spend too much time on the court. I don't know why but I always play good tennis here (in Australia)," she said. 
&nbsp; 
Pliskova has made the quarter-finals in her last two appearances at Melbourne Park and entered this year's tournament on a high after winning the Brisbane International warm-up.

Seventh seed Karolina Pliskova brushed aside fellow Czech Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-2 to reach the Australian Open second round on Tuesday. The 26-year-old took just 69 minutes to defeat her compatriot.

Seventh seed Karolina Pliskova brushed aside fellow Czech Karolina Muchova 6-3, 6-2 to reach the Australian Open second round on Tuesday. The 26-year-old took just 69 minutes to defeat her compatriot. "It's a good start, I'm happy I didn't have to spend too much time on the court. I don't know why but I always play good tennis here (in Australia)," she said. Pliskova has made the quarter-finals in her last two appearances at Melbourne Park and entered this year's tournament on a high after winning the Brisbane International warm-up.

Australian Open 2019: Seventh seed Karolina Pliskova through to second round

Bashing 39 aces to match his age, Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the Australian Open in over 40 years as he felled Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, a man 18 years his junior, to reach the second round on Tuesday.

On a sweltering day at Melbourne Park, the towering Croat's 6-7(5) 7-6(5) 7-6(3) 7-6(5) win on Court 19 made him the oldest victor at the tournament since Australian icon Ken Rosewall reached the third round of the 1978 tournament at the age of 44.

World number 73 Karlovic also became the oldest winner at any Grand Slam since a 40-year-old Jimmy Connors beat Jaime Oncins to reach the second round of the 1992 U.S. Open.

Karlovic, whose birthday falls on Feb. 28, will be officially middle-aged next month but said he had no intention of winding down while still fit enough to compete.

"I think I'm healthy so hopefully there will be no injuries," the 6-ft 11-in (2.11 metres) Zagreb man told Reuters at Melbourne Park.

"As long as my ranking is up and I get in to all these tournaments, I don't see any reason I should stop."

The oldest man in the men's singles ahead of 37-year-old double defending champion Roger Federer, Karlovic advanced a day after 31-year-old Andy Murray played possibly his last match at Melbourne Park on Monday.

The former world number one Briton has been suffering severe pain in his right hip and said before the tournament that he might have to retire.

Where Murray's all-court, scrambling, defensive game has undoubtedly taken its toll, Karlovic's longevity may be explained in part by his commitment to the now rarely seen art of serve-volley.

Boasting a monster serve and an arm-span that can seem as wide as the court, the Croat keeps points short and sharp.

The style can be picked apart by good passers and the power of modern baseline pounders but it has served former world number 14 Karlovic well in a very respectable career of eight titles.

No rally against Hurkacz exceeded four points and the silver-haired Karlovic sealed the match when the Pole sent an attempted passing shot into the tramlines.

He raised his long arms into the air in triumph as a rowdy smattering of Croatian fans chanted, "Ivo! Ivo! Ivo!"

Why would he want to leave all this, he asked.

"This range of emotions from winning to losing, it's, I don't know, it's different," he said.

Bashing 39 aces to match his age, Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the Australian Open in over 40 years as he felled Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, a man 18 years his junior, to reach the second round on Tuesday.

Bashing 39 aces to match his age, Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the Australian Open in over 40 years as he felled Poland's Hubert Hurkacz, a man 18 years his junior, to reach the second round on Tuesday. On a sweltering day at Melbourne Park, the towering Croat's 6-7(5) 7-6(5) 7-6(3) 7-6(5) win on Court 19 made him the oldest victor at the tournament since Australian icon Ken Rosewall reached the third round of the 1978 tournament at the age of 44. World number 73 Karlovic also became the oldest winner at any Grand Slam since a 40-year-old Jimmy Connors beat Jaime Oncins to reach the second round of the 1992 U.S. Open. Karlovic, whose birthday falls on Feb. 28, will be officially middle-aged next month but said he had no intention of winding down while still fit enough to compete. "I think I'm healthy so hopefully there will be no injuries," the 6-ft 11-in (2.11 metres) Zagreb man told Reuters at Melbourne Park. "As long as my ranking is up and I get in to all these tournaments, I don't see any reason I should stop." The oldest man in the men's singles ahead of 37-year-old double defending champion Roger Federer, Karlovic advanced a day after 31-year-old Andy Murray played possibly his last match at Melbourne Park on Monday. The former world number one Briton has been suffering severe pain in his right hip and said before the tournament that he might have to retire. Where Murray's all-court, scrambling, defensive game has undoubtedly taken its toll, Karlovic's longevity may be explained in part by his commitment to the now rarely seen art of serve-volley. Boasting a monster serve and an arm-span that can seem as wide as the court, the Croat keeps points short and sharp. The style can be picked apart by good passers and the power of modern baseline pounders but it has served former world number 14 Karlovic well in a very respectable career of eight titles. No rally against Hurkacz exceeded four points and the silver-haired Karlovic sealed the match when the Pole sent an attempted passing shot into the tramlines. He raised his long arms into the air in triumph as a rowdy smattering of Croatian fans chanted, "Ivo! Ivo! Ivo!" Why would he want to leave all this, he asked. "This range of emotions from winning to losing, it's, I don't know, it's different," he said.

Australian Open: Ivo Karlovic, 39, defies Father Time to reach second round

Katie Boulter became the first player to win a main draw match at the Australian Open under a revamped scoring system on Monday but not before losing her way during the new-look deciding set shootout.

The Briton, who overcame dual Grand Slam semi-finalist Ekaterina Makarova, thought she had won the first round match after reaching seven points in the third set tiebreak and celebrated accordingly.

Reminded the tie-break was an extended first-to-ten-points affair, the 22-year-old regrouped, won it 10-6 and was later able to see the funny side.

"I was in the moment and I kind of forgot that it was first to 10 but I'm happy I could dig deep and get through it in the end," said Boulter, who plays eleventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, in the second round.

"I've got to take it light-heartedly. I ended up getting the win, I probably would have been really devastated had I not."

While Boulter was the first player to win a first-to-ten-point tiebreak in the main draw, several tight qualifying matches already tested out the format.

Scoring systems have been hotly debated ever since the so-called "endless match" between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010, which ended after the American prevailed 70-68 in the fifth set after more than eight hours.

The debate reignited last year after Isner was again involved in an ultra-long match at Wimbledon, losing 26-24 in the deciding set to South Africa's Kevin Anderson in the semi-finals.

On both occasions, the exhausted winner of the marathon contest lost their next match.

The lengthy contests also wreaked havoc with timetabling, shunting subsequent matches onto other courts, as well as the all-important television schedules.

Each of the Grand Slams now utilise a different system for deciding deadlocked matches.

The U.S. Open and Australian Open both use tiebreaks when scores are locked at six games apiece in the deciding set, although the length of the final set tiebreak differs.

Wimbledon will this year utilise a tiebreak should scores get locked at 12 games each in the decider.

This has left the French Open the sole major with the potential for an interminable match, where a player must secure a two-game advantage in the deciding set instead of engaging in a shoot-out.

Katie Boulter became the first player to win a main draw match at the Australian Open under a revamped scoring system on Monday but not before losing her way during the new-look deciding set shootout.

Katie Boulter became the first player to win a main draw match at the Australian Open under a revamped scoring system on Monday but not before losing her way during the new-look deciding set shootout. The Briton, who overcame dual Grand Slam semi-finalist Ekaterina Makarova, thought she had won the first round match after reaching seven points in the third set tiebreak and celebrated accordingly. Reminded the tie-break was an extended first-to-ten-points affair, the 22-year-old regrouped, won it 10-6 and was later able to see the funny side. "I was in the moment and I kind of forgot that it was first to 10 but I'm happy I could dig deep and get through it in the end," said Boulter, who plays eleventh seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, in the second round. "I've got to take it light-heartedly. I ended up getting the win, I probably would have been really devastated had I not." While Boulter was the first player to win a first-to-ten-point tiebreak in the main draw, several tight qualifying matches already tested out the format. Scoring systems have been hotly debated ever since the so-called "endless match" between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010, which ended after the American prevailed 70-68 in the fifth set after more than eight hours. The debate reignited last year after Isner was again involved in an ultra-long match at Wimbledon, losing 26-24 in the deciding set to South Africa's Kevin Anderson in the semi-finals. On both occasions, the exhausted winner of the marathon contest lost their next match. The lengthy contests also wreaked havoc with timetabling, shunting subsequent matches onto other courts, as well as the all-important television schedules. Each of the Grand Slams now utilise a different system for deciding deadlocked matches. The U.S. Open and Australian Open both use tiebreaks when scores are locked at six games apiece in the deciding set, although the length of the final set tiebreak differs. Wimbledon will this year utilise a tiebreak should scores get locked at 12 games each in the decider. This has left the French Open the sole major with the potential for an interminable match, where a player must secure a two-game advantage in the deciding set instead of engaging in a shoot-out.

Australian open: Boulter wins deciding set shootout after premature celebration

Rafael Nadal made a winning return to tennis with a first-round victory over James Duckworth at the Australian Open on Monday.

The 2009 Australian Open champion defeated Duckworth in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 in hot conditions on Rod Laver Arena.

The Spaniard had not played an ATP Tour match since being forced to withdraw from his US Open semi-final because of a knee injury last September.

After an abdominal problem and ankle surgery ended his season early, he pulled out of the tournament in Brisbane last week with a minor thigh strain.

The world No 2 began impressively to break Duckworth in the opening game of the match and eventually claim the first set in 39 minutes. The Australian, however, offered resistance in the second set when he secured a break of serve to establish a 2-0 lead.

Nadal, a 17-time major winner, broke back immediately with games soon going back on serve, before he gained two more breaks to move ahead two sets to love.

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Rafa's back! 
 
In his 1⃣4⃣th appearance at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> gets his 2019 campaign underway, def. James Duckworth 6-4 6-3 7-5. <a href="https://t.co/egIaN204qE">pic.twitter.com/egIaN204qE</a>
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"It's not easy to come back after a lot of months, and especially against a player who's super aggressive. 'I'm very, very happy to be through," Nadal said in an on-court interview.&nbsp;

He will next play either another Australian Matthew Ebden or Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff who face off later on Monday. 
&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal made a winning return to tennis with a first-round victory over James Duckworth at the Australian Open on Monday. The 2009 Australian Open champion defeated Duckworth in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 in hot conditions on Rod Laver Arena.

Rafael Nadal made a winning return to tennis with a first-round victory over James Duckworth at the Australian Open on Monday. The 2009 Australian Open champion defeated Duckworth in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 in hot conditions on Rod Laver Arena. The Spaniard had not played an ATP Tour match since being forced to withdraw from his US Open semi-final because of a knee injury last September. After an abdominal problem and ankle surgery ended his season early, he pulled out of the tournament in Brisbane last week with a minor thigh strain. The world No 2 began impressively to break Duckworth in the opening game of the match and eventually claim the first set in 39 minutes. The Australian, however, offered resistance in the second set when he secured a break of serve to establish a 2-0 lead. Nadal, a 17-time major winner, broke back immediately with games soon going back on serve, before he gained two more breaks to move ahead two sets to love. Rafa's back! In his 1⃣4⃣th appearance at the #AusOpen, @RafaelNadal gets his 2019 campaign underway, def. James Duckworth 6-4 6-3 7-5. pic.twitter.com/egIaN204qE — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 14, 2019 × "It's not easy to come back after a lot of months, and especially against a player who's super aggressive. 'I'm very, very happy to be through," Nadal said in an on-court interview. He will next play either another Australian Matthew Ebden or Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff who face off later on Monday.

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal roars past James Duckworth to enter 2nd round

India's Prajnesh Gunneswaran Monday said he "struggled a bit with the sun" and that it "cost" him a lot of games at the Australian Open, ending his maiden Grand Slam appearance in a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-prajnesh-lose-to-americas-tiafoe-on-grand-slam-debut-ends-indias-singles-challenge-190122">first-round exit</a>.&nbsp;

Prajnesh, currently the country's number one singles player, lost to American Frances Tiafoe in straight sets 7-6, (9-7), 6-3, 6-3 at Melbourne Park on Monday.

"It was a good experience. I played a good match overall, had chances in all sets. I struggled a bit with the sun, (it's) different in Australia for some reason.

Found it hard to adjust the serve from one side of the court," Prajnesh told PTI.

The World No.39 beat the Indian qualifier in a match that lasted an hour and 52 minutes.

He said that next time he will find a way to adjust.&nbsp;

"Usually it's tough for the right-handers earlier in the day. Noon to 2 maybe for the lefty's. He (Tiafoe) had some issues in the first set with that. As the match went longer.

"That's what I noticed. It got harder for me."

Prajnesh fought hard in the first set which went into the tie-breaker after both players held their serve till the 12th game.

In the tie-breaker, Tiafoe got a mini-break and then closed the set at 9-7 in the tie-breaker.

Once he won the first set, the American completely dominated the 106th ranked Indian in the second and third set.

India's Prajnesh Gunneswaran Monday said he "struggled a bit with the sun" and that it "cost" him a lot of games at the Australian Open, ending his maiden Grand Slam appearance in a first-round exit.

India's Prajnesh Gunneswaran Monday said he "struggled a bit with the sun" and that it "cost" him a lot of games at the Australian Open, ending his maiden Grand Slam appearance in a first-round exit. Prajnesh, currently the country's number one singles player, lost to American Frances Tiafoe in straight sets 7-6, (9-7), 6-3, 6-3 at Melbourne Park on Monday. "It was a good experience. I played a good match overall, had chances in all sets. I struggled a bit with the sun, (it's) different in Australia for some reason. Found it hard to adjust the serve from one side of the court," Prajnesh told PTI. The World No.39 beat the Indian qualifier in a match that lasted an hour and 52 minutes. He said that next time he will find a way to adjust. "Usually it's tough for the right-handers earlier in the day. Noon to 2 maybe for the lefty's. He (Tiafoe) had some issues in the first set with that. As the match went longer. "That's what I noticed. It got harder for me." Prajnesh fought hard in the first set which went into the tie-breaker after both players held their serve till the 12th game. In the tie-breaker, Tiafoe got a mini-break and then closed the set at 9-7 in the tie-breaker. Once he won the first set, the American completely dominated the 106th ranked Indian in the second and third set.

Struggled a bit with sun and it cost me: Prajnesh after Aus Open exit

Who will win the Australian Open? This is what 'Player DNA' says

Andy Murray said he would make a decision on further surgery that could end his career "within a week" after battling to a gutsy, epic five-set defeat in the Australian Open on Monday.&nbsp;

The Scot <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-out-of-australian-open-after-five-set-thriller-190245">fought to the very end before losing</a> his Melbourne first-round match 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 6-2&nbsp;to Roberto Bautista Agut.

Murray, who has said he will retire this season because of chronic hip pain, seemed finished at two sets and a break down to the 22nd seeded Spaniard in the first round but somehow battled back to force a fifth set.

"Amazing. That was incredible, thank you so, so much to everyone that came out tonight," the three-time Grand Slam champion said after being swept along on a wave of vociferous support.

Murray announced at an emotional press conference on Friday that he would retire at Wimbledon this year, but conceded Monday's clash could well be his last match as he will soon need a further major operation on his damaged right hip.

"I have basically like two options," he told reporters. "One is to take the next four-and-a-half months off, then build up, you know, play Wimbledon.

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<h5>"Honestly I've loved playing here over the years. If this was my last match, an amazing way to end. I gave everything I had and it wasn't enough tonight" - Andy Murray</h5>
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'I'm really struggling'

"I mean, I'm really struggling. I can't walk properly at all just now. I could play another match, but ... I want to improve my quality of life, because even if I take four months, I still can't walk.

"But having an operation like that, there's absolutely no guarantees I'd be able to play again. I'm fully aware of that. It's a really big operation.&nbsp;

"I'll probably decide in the next week or so."

Murray had entered a raucous Melbourne Arena to a huge ovation as Scottish Saltires and British Union flags were flown while one banner proclaimed: "There will only ever be one Andy Murray".

The rollicking support lifted him and despite frequently grimacing with pain he moved relatively freely as the Spaniard took the opening set in 50 minutes.

The in-form Bautista Agut had beaten world number one Novak Djokovic on his way to winning the Qatar Open at the start of the month and quickly took the second.

Bautista Agut broke for 2-1 in the third and just as the end looked like it would come quickly, Murray had the crowd, including mum Judy and brother Jamie, back on their feet after a winner down the line to break back.&nbsp;

"Right, let's go," Murray shouted and held to love with an searing ace to nudge ahead 3-2 before forcing a tiebreak which he took 7-5 with a scream of "come on" and a huge fist pump.&nbsp;

Suddenly the comeback was on.

The fourth set went with serve and Murray again proved the tie-break master on the fourth of his five set points -- but not before being interrupted as he served to stay in the match at 5-6 by fireworks going off at the nearby Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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<h5>"Maybe I'll see you again" - Andy Murray</h5>
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'An incredible night'

Once Bautista Agut broke in the fifth, Murray's resolve finally crumbled and the Spaniard took it 6-2. He will face unseeded Australian John Millman in the second round.

"That was an incredible night," said Bautista Agut.&nbsp;

"Andy deserves this atmosphere. He gave everything to the last point. I want to congratulate him for all he did for tennis."

Murray was then shown a big screen tribute from a whole phalanx of top players, including Roger Federer, Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Caroline Wozniacki and Sloane Stephens.

"I've been very fortunate -- and unlucky -- to compete in an era with all those great players around" Murray said.

"To have the respect of your peers is a very special thing."

Andy Murray said he would make a decision on further surgery that could end his career "within a week" after battling to a gutsy, epic five-set defeat in the Australian Open on Monday.

Andy Murray said he would make a decision on further surgery that could end his career "within a week" after battling to a gutsy, epic five-set defeat in the Australian Open on Monday. The Scot fought to the very end before losing his Melbourne first-round match 6-4, 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (4/7), 6-2 to Roberto Bautista Agut. Murray, who has said he will retire this season because of chronic hip pain, seemed finished at two sets and a break down to the 22nd seeded Spaniard in the first round but somehow battled back to force a fifth set. "Amazing. That was incredible, thank you so, so much to everyone that came out tonight," the three-time Grand Slam champion said after being swept along on a wave of vociferous support. Murray announced at an emotional press conference on Friday that he would retire at Wimbledon this year, but conceded Monday's clash could well be his last match as he will soon need a further major operation on his damaged right hip. "I have basically like two options," he told reporters. "One is to take the next four-and-a-half months off, then build up, you know, play Wimbledon. "Honestly I've loved playing here over the years. If this was my last match, an amazing way to end. I gave everything I had and it wasn't enough tonight" - Andy Murray × 'I'm really struggling' "I mean, I'm really struggling. I can't walk properly at all just now. I could play another match, but ... I want to improve my quality of life, because even if I take four months, I still can't walk. "But having an operation like that, there's absolutely no guarantees I'd be able to play again. I'm fully aware of that. It's a really big operation. "I'll probably decide in the next week or so." Murray had entered a raucous Melbourne Arena to a huge ovation as Scottish Saltires and British Union flags were flown while one banner proclaimed: "There will only ever be one Andy Murray". The rollicking support lifted him and despite frequently grimacing with pain he moved relatively freely as the Spaniard took the opening set in 50 minutes. The in-form Bautista Agut had beaten world number one Novak Djokovic on his way to winning the Qatar Open at the start of the month and quickly took the second. Bautista Agut broke for 2-1 in the third and just as the end looked like it would come quickly, Murray had the crowd, including mum Judy and brother Jamie, back on their feet after a winner down the line to break back. "Right, let's go," Murray shouted and held to love with an searing ace to nudge ahead 3-2 before forcing a tiebreak which he took 7-5 with a scream of "come on" and a huge fist pump. Suddenly the comeback was on. The fourth set went with serve and Murray again proved the tie-break master on the fourth of his five set points -- but not before being interrupted as he served to stay in the match at 5-6 by fireworks going off at the nearby Melbourne Cricket Ground. "Maybe I'll see you again" - Andy Murray × 'An incredible night' Once Bautista Agut broke in the fifth, Murray's resolve finally crumbled and the Spaniard took it 6-2. He will face unseeded Australian John Millman in the second round. "That was an incredible night," said Bautista Agut. "Andy deserves this atmosphere. He gave everything to the last point. I want to congratulate him for all he did for tennis." Murray was then shown a big screen tribute from a whole phalanx of top players, including Roger Federer, Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Caroline Wozniacki and Sloane Stephens. "I've been very fortunate -- and unlucky -- to compete in an era with all those great players around" Murray said. "To have the respect of your peers is a very special thing."

Andy Murray to make career decision 'in next week' after Australian Open exit

Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is likely to be honoured with a statue at the historic Grand Slam venue, the All England Club's chief executive told the BBC.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old Scot - who won the grasscourt Grand Slam in 2013 and 2016 - announced last Friday retirement was on the cards due to a chronic hip injury.

He then choked back tears and broke down as he revealed he hoped to end his career at Wimbledon, but admitted the Australian Open which began Monday could be his last event because the constant pain was so bad.

Richard Lewis, chief executive of the All England Club, said Murray could well be honoured in the same manner as fellow Briton and multiple Wimbledon men's singles champion Fred Perry.

Perry - who won three successive Wimbledon titles from 1934-36 - had a statue unveiled in 1984.

"We always felt that when Andy retired, that would be the appropriate time to recognise his extraordinary career," said Lewis.

"I am sure something like (a statue) will be done, but meanwhile down at the club he is seen as a highly-respected person both on and off the court."

Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is likely to be honoured with a statue at the historic Grand Slam venue, the All England Club's chief executive told the BBC.

Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is likely to be honoured with a statue at the historic Grand Slam venue, the All England Club's chief executive told the BBC. The 31-year-old Scot - who won the grasscourt Grand Slam in 2013 and 2016 - announced last Friday retirement was on the cards due to a chronic hip injury. He then choked back tears and broke down as he revealed he hoped to end his career at Wimbledon, but admitted the Australian Open which began Monday could be his last event because the constant pain was so bad. Richard Lewis, chief executive of the All England Club, said Murray could well be honoured in the same manner as fellow Briton and multiple Wimbledon men's singles champion Fred Perry. Perry - who won three successive Wimbledon titles from 1934-36 - had a statue unveiled in 1984. "We always felt that when Andy retired, that would be the appropriate time to recognise his extraordinary career," said Lewis. "I am sure something like (a statue) will be done, but meanwhile down at the club he is seen as a highly-respected person both on and off the court."

Andy Murray likely to have statue erected: Wimbledon CEO

Roger Federer warmed up for a run at a record seventh Australian Open title Monday by breezing past Uzbek Denis Istomin to book a spot in the second round.

The 37-year-old Swiss master made light of his assignment on Rod Laver Arena, wrapping up the match 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 as he confidently began his title defence.

"I'm very happy with my first round, to be honest," he said.

"It's been great. I felt the ball really good."

Federer has won the last two tournaments at Melbourne Park in a late-career resurgence and is now angling for a 21st major victory.&nbsp;

His achievements so far put him on a par with other six-time winners Novak Djokovic and Roy Emerson - although the Australian great's victories all came before the Open era.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Make it 15 straight <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> wins for the champ 👑<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> def. Istomin 6-3 6-4 6-4. <a href="https://t.co/LK08aifDcP">pic.twitter.com/LK08aifDcP</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1084797395223756801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It's disbelief really that I'm the double defending champion at my age," he said, adding that it was a "fairytale challenge" to be going for another one.&nbsp;

"I'm going to try everything possible (to win again) and leave it all on the court. I will give it everything I've got."

Federer led from the outset, saying it allowed him to swing freely, particularly since his serve had clicked straight into place at the season-opening Grand Slam.

"When you trust your second serve, you can go after your first serve," he said. "I think I can be happy how I got out of the blocks from the off-season.&nbsp;

"That's always the most tricky part, because if you don't get broken much, or hardly ever, not at all... you can really try out different things."

Federer came into the tournament in a buoyant mood after teaming with fellow Swiss Belinda Bencic to win a second succesive mixed teams Hopman Cup title in Perth this month.

"I served and volleyed in the mixed doubles all the time and spent a lot of time at net," he said. "I've been feeling good at net for quite some time now."

Istomin caused a massive upset in Melbourne two years ago when he knocked out defending champion Novak Djokovic in the second round, but was no match for the Swiss great.

The writing was on the wall with Federer winning all six of their previous meetings.

"It was great to be back here, I was brought some good energy and played some good shots," said third seed Federer.

The world number three next plays Britain's Daniel Evans, who battled past Japan's Tatsuma Ito in three sets.

Roger Federer warmed up for a run at a record seventh Australian Open title Monday by breezing past Uzbek Denis Istomin to book a spot in the second round. The 37-year-old Swiss master made light of his assignment on Rod Laver Arena, wrapping up the match 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 as he confidently began his title defence.

Roger Federer warmed up for a run at a record seventh Australian Open title Monday by breezing past Uzbek Denis Istomin to book a spot in the second round. The 37-year-old Swiss master made light of his assignment on Rod Laver Arena, wrapping up the match 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 as he confidently began his title defence. "I'm very happy with my first round, to be honest," he said. "It's been great. I felt the ball really good." Federer has won the last two tournaments at Melbourne Park in a late-career resurgence and is now angling for a 21st major victory. His achievements so far put him on a par with other six-time winners Novak Djokovic and Roy Emerson - although the Australian great's victories all came before the Open era. Make it 15 straight #AusOpen wins for the champ 👑@rogerfederer def. Istomin 6-3 6-4 6-4. pic.twitter.com/LK08aifDcP — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 14, 2019 × "It's disbelief really that I'm the double defending champion at my age," he said, adding that it was a "fairytale challenge" to be going for another one. "I'm going to try everything possible (to win again) and leave it all on the court. I will give it everything I've got." Federer led from the outset, saying it allowed him to swing freely, particularly since his serve had clicked straight into place at the season-opening Grand Slam. "When you trust your second serve, you can go after your first serve," he said. "I think I can be happy how I got out of the blocks from the off-season. "That's always the most tricky part, because if you don't get broken much, or hardly ever, not at all... you can really try out different things." Federer came into the tournament in a buoyant mood after teaming with fellow Swiss Belinda Bencic to win a second succesive mixed teams Hopman Cup title in Perth this month. "I served and volleyed in the mixed doubles all the time and spent a lot of time at net," he said. "I've been feeling good at net for quite some time now." Istomin caused a massive upset in Melbourne two years ago when he knocked out defending champion Novak Djokovic in the second round, but was no match for the Swiss great. The writing was on the wall with Federer winning all six of their previous meetings. "It was great to be back here, I was brought some good energy and played some good shots," said third seed Federer. The world number three next plays Britain's Daniel Evans, who battled past Japan's Tatsuma Ito in three sets.

Australian Open: Roger Federer sweeps into round two

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