WION&#39;s pick of the week

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/when-east-and-west-collided-on-the-sports-field-642">When &#39;East&#39; and &#39;West&#39; collided on the sports field</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/glam-quotient-australian-open-sharapova-wozniacki-co-set-court-on-fire-640">Glam quotient @ Australian Open: Sharapova, Wozniacki &amp; Co set court on fire</a>

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<big>Cricket</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-odi-england-beat-australia-by-16-runs-to-clinch-series-30251">3rd ODI: England beat Australia by 16 runs to clinch series</a>

The hosts struggled and managed only 286 runs while chasing a huge target of 303.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-pakistan-to-lift-blind-cricket-world-cup-2018-30171">India beat Pakistan to lift Blind Cricket World Cup 2018</a>

India defeated arch-rival Pakistan by two wickets at Sharjah cricket stadium to clinch the 5th Blind Cricket World Cup on Saturday

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-complete-series-whitewash-over-pakistan-30106">New Zealand complete series whitewash over Pakistan</a>

A century to Martin Guptill helped the Black Caps set a 272 total that proved too much for Pakistan after Matt Henry tore through their top order

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-ngidis-6-wicket-haul-helps-south-africa-beat-india-by-135-runs-clinch-series-2-0-29854">India vs South Africa 2nd Test: Ngidi&#39;s 6-wicket haul helps South Africa beat India by 135 runs, clinch series 2-0</a>

Debutant Lungi Ngidi&nbsp;helped South Africa to win the second Test&nbsp;match against India by 135 runs&nbsp;at Centurion on Wednesday

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-found-guilty-of-misbehaving-with-umpires-29690">Virat Kohli found guilty of &#39;misbehaving&#39; with umpires, fined</a>

On the Day 3 of the second Test against South Africa at Centurion&nbsp;Indian skipper Virat Kohli was&nbsp;penalised 25 % of match fee for &ldquo;conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game&rdquo;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-to-play-maiden-test-against-india-at-bengaluru-in-june-29748">Afghanistan to play maiden Test against India at Bengaluru in June</a>

Afghanistan will play its maiden Test match in the southern Indian city of Bangalore on June 14, cricket officials announced Tuesday

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-sunil-gavaskar-remembers-ms-dhonis-strategies-29817">Sunil Gavaskar remembers MS Dhoni as India&#39;s batting line fails against South Africa</a>

&quot;I would have actually liked him to maybe give up captaincy and still stay in the team as&nbsp;wicketkeeper-batsman,&quot; said Gavaskar

Highlights:

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-and-virender-sehwag-eying-on-under-19-champs-29601">Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag eye Under-19 champs</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-should-u-19-world-cup-be-the-stepping-stone-for-cricketers-aiming-international-level-29801">Should U-19 World Cup be the stepping stone for cricketers aiming international level?</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-world-cup-meet-the-other-afridi-fast-bowler-shaheen-shah-afridi-29823">U-19 World Cup: Meet the other Afridi, fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-named-icc-cricketer-of-the-year-29916">Virat Kohli named ICC Cricketer of the Year</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-david-warners-daughter-cheering-for-england-29956">David Warner&#39;s daughter cheering for England</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sehwag-confident-of-yuvraj-capable-of-making-strong-comeback-like-ashish-nehra-30153">Sehwag confident of Yuvraj capable of making strong comeback like Ashish Nehra</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-launches-his-cricket-academy-in-singapore-30157">MS Dhoni launches his cricket academy in Singapore</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-test-loss-indian-players-prefer-to-hang-out-with-their-wives-than-practice-30120">Despite Test loss, Indian players prefer to hang out with their wives than practice</a>

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<big>Tennis</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-indian-duo-leander-paes-purav-raja-crash-out-30231">Australian Open: Indian duo Leander Paes Purav Raja crash out</a>

The Indian pair lost to the 11th seeded Colombian duo 1-6, 2-6, in an hour-and-nine-minute-long match

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-rafael-nadal-through-to-quarterfinals-30230">Australian Open: Rafael Nadal through to quarterfinals</a>

Rafa was taken to four gruelling sets in almost four hours before winning 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-caroline-wozniacki-books-quarter-finals-berth-30206">&nbsp;Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki books quarter-finals berth</a>

The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals

Highlights:

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/simona-halep-vs-lauren-davis-the-epic-contest-in-australian-open-637">Simona Halep vs Lauren Davis: The epic contest in Australian Open</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tennis-stars-and-other-animals-29855">Australian Open: Tennis stars show love for animals</a>

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<big>Football</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/anthony-martial-strike-gives-united-points-at-turf-moor-30194">EPL: Anthony Martial strike gives United points at Turf Moor</a>

Burnley manager Sean Dyche, whose team have now gone seven league games without a win and dropped to eighth on the table, was upbeat about his team&#39;s performance

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aguero-hat-trick-reboots-man-citys-title-charge-30196">EPL: Aguero hat-trick reboots Man City&#39;s title charge</a>

Manchester City&nbsp;is again 12 points clear of second-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-deny-reports-of-griezmann-agreement-30210">Barcelona deny reports of Griezmann agreement</a>

Barcelona has released a statement to deny the reports of a Catalan newspaper that FCB has reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann

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&nbsp;

<big>Rallying</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/the-40th-edition-of-dakar-rally-ends-in-argentina-30209">The 40th edition of Dakar rally ends in Argentina</a>

Sainz, Walkner, Casale and Nikolaev win the 40th edition of the Dakar Rally in style

&nbsp;

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Weekly compilation of sports and other related news

WION's pick of the week When 'East' and 'West' collided on the sports field Glam quotient @ Australian Open: Sharapova, Wozniacki & Co set court on fire Cricket 3rd ODI: England beat Australia by 16 runs to clinch series The hosts struggled and managed only 286 runs while chasing a huge target of 303. India beat Pakistan to lift Blind Cricket World Cup 2018 India defeated arch-rival Pakistan by two wickets at Sharjah cricket stadium to clinch the 5th Blind Cricket World Cup on Saturday New Zealand complete series whitewash over Pakistan A century to Martin Guptill helped the Black Caps set a 272 total that proved too much for Pakistan after Matt Henry tore through their top order India vs South Africa 2nd Test: Ngidi's 6-wicket haul helps South Africa beat India by 135 runs, clinch series 2-0 Debutant Lungi Ngidi helped South Africa to win the second Test match against India by 135 runs at Centurion on Wednesday Virat Kohli found guilty of 'misbehaving' with umpires, fined On the Day 3 of the second Test against South Africa at Centurion Indian skipper Virat Kohli was penalised 25 % of match fee for “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game” Afghanistan to play maiden Test against India at Bengaluru in June Afghanistan will play its maiden Test match in the southern Indian city of Bangalore on June 14, cricket officials announced Tuesday Sunil Gavaskar remembers MS Dhoni as India's batting line fails against South Africa "I would have actually liked him to maybe give up captaincy and still stay in the team as wicketkeeper-batsman," said Gavaskar Highlights: Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag eye Under-19 champs Should U-19 World Cup be the stepping stone for cricketers aiming international level? U-19 World Cup: Meet the other Afridi, fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi Virat Kohli named ICC Cricketer of the Year David Warner's daughter cheering for England Sehwag confident of Yuvraj capable of making strong comeback like Ashish Nehra MS Dhoni launches his cricket academy in Singapore Despite Test loss, Indian players prefer to hang out with their wives than practice Tennis Australian Open: Indian duo Leander Paes Purav Raja crash out The Indian pair lost to the 11th seeded Colombian duo 1-6, 2-6, in an hour-and-nine-minute-long match Australian Open: Rafael Nadal through to quarterfinals Rafa was taken to four gruelling sets in almost four hours before winning 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki books quarter-finals berth The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals Highlights: Simona Halep vs Lauren Davis: The epic contest in Australian Open Australian Open: Tennis stars show love for animals Football EPL: Anthony Martial strike gives United points at Turf Moor Burnley manager Sean Dyche, whose team have now gone seven league games without a win and dropped to eighth on the table, was upbeat about his team's performance EPL: Aguero hat-trick reboots Man City's title charge Manchester City is again 12 points clear of second-placed Manchester United Barcelona deny reports of Griezmann agreement Barcelona has released a statement to deny the reports of a Catalan newspaper that FCB has reached an agreement to sign Antoine Griezmann Rallying The 40th edition of Dakar rally ends in Argentina Sainz, Walkner, Casale and Nikolaev win the 40th edition of the Dakar Rally in style

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

Caroline Wozniacki d&nbsp;Magdalena Rybarikova,&nbsp;6-3, 6-0

Caroline Wozniacki moved a step closer to a first Grand Slam title with a romp past 19th seed Magdalena Rybarikova at the Australian Open on Sunday.

The second seed handed out a tennis masterclass to the 2017 Wimbledon semi-finalist 6-3, 6-0 in 63 minutes of mesmerising shot-making on Rod Laver Arena.

&quot;She really mixes up the pace, I just tried to calm down, get my returns in and wait for the opportunities to attack,&quot; she said after a ruthless rout of the Slovak.

&quot;I think you can tell my confidence is pretty good at the moment,&quot; she added.

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&quot;I&#39;m admiring myself right there.. I&#39;m sorry!&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> on her first Grand Slam tweener ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPdyXzWV5q">pic.twitter.com/XPdyXzWV5q</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954929422141833216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals after advancing in just 63 minutes.

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The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals

Caroline Wozniacki d Magdalena Rybarikova, 6-3, 6-0 Caroline Wozniacki moved a step closer to a first Grand Slam title with a romp past 19th seed Magdalena Rybarikova at the Australian Open on Sunday. The second seed handed out a tennis masterclass to the 2017 Wimbledon semi-finalist 6-3, 6-0 in 63 minutes of mesmerising shot-making on Rod Laver Arena. "She really mixes up the pace, I just tried to calm down, get my returns in and wait for the opportunities to attack," she said after a ruthless rout of the Slovak. "I think you can tell my confidence is pretty good at the moment," she added. "I'm admiring myself right there.. I'm sorry!"@CaroWozniacki on her first Grand Slam tweener ????#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/XPdyXzWV5q — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2018 × The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals after advancing in just 63 minutes.

Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki books quarter-finals berth

Roger Federer d&nbsp;Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

Defending champion Federer&nbsp;defeated Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 to reach the round of 16 on Saturday at Rod Laver Arena.

&quot;I was able to stay more on the offensive than he was and maybe I was protecting my own serve better than him,&quot; Federer said.

&quot;I was hoping I could play at that level. I&#39;m very happy that I was able to rise to a level that I needed to beat Richard.

&quot;It was tough. The score shows it, as well. I could have done it maybe a bit faster.

&quot;I&rsquo;m coming in this year very fit, very well-equipped.&quot;

&quot;At the same time, I&#39;m happy to have done it the way it happened. I was pleased. I think I had some good shots. I was happy the way I played. I also thought we both played a good level again, so it was fun,&quot; he added.

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9️⃣0️⃣ match wins and counting!<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> notches up his 90th match victory at Melbourne Park d 29th seed Richard <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gasquet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gasquet</a> 6-2 7-5 6-4.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/wo83nX7u1K">pic.twitter.com/wo83nX7u1K</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954686257971437568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-simona-survives-an-epic-rally-beats-lauren-davis-4-6-6-4-15-13-30125" target="_blank">Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-karolina-pliskova-madison-keys-enter-fourth-round-30123" target="_blank">Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova &amp; Madison Keys enter fourth round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-hyeon-chung-beats-alexander-zverev-enters-r16-30148" target="_blank">Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angelique-kerber-outplays-maria-sharapova-to-reach-r16-30149" target="_blank">Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tomas-berdych-rallies-past-del-potro-to-reach-last-16-30151" target="_blank">Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16</a>

The Swiss legend broke Gasquet&#39;s serve five times and hit 42 winners with 30 unforced errors.

&quot;I like to see the way he saved match point. The first one was a backhand down the line,&quot; Federer said of Gasquet late resistance.

&quot;Feels like he can do that in his sleep. I admire that. I take pleasure out of him making that shot even though for a second I thought that this could have been the match point I had and end up losing the match.&quot;

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Roger that indeed ????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/i1WtMxFkuQ">pic.twitter.com/i1WtMxFkuQ</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954687033586302976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;I started as a kid with a double-handed backhand and then let go. That left-hand is just decoration right now,&quot; he shared.

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The Swiss legend Roger Federer defeated Richard Gasquet of France, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

Roger Federer d Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 Defending champion Federer defeated Richard Gasquet, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 to reach the round of 16 on Saturday at Rod Laver Arena. "I was able to stay more on the offensive than he was and maybe I was protecting my own serve better than him," Federer said. "I was hoping I could play at that level. I'm very happy that I was able to rise to a level that I needed to beat Richard. "It was tough. The score shows it, as well. I could have done it maybe a bit faster. "I’m coming in this year very fit, very well-equipped." "At the same time, I'm happy to have done it the way it happened. I was pleased. I think I had some good shots. I was happy the way I played. I also thought we both played a good level again, so it was fun," he added. 9️⃣0️⃣ match wins and counting!@rogerfederer notches up his 90th match victory at Melbourne Park d 29th seed Richard #Gasquet 6-2 7-5 6-4.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/wo83nX7u1K — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16 Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16 Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16 The Swiss legend broke Gasquet's serve five times and hit 42 winners with 30 unforced errors. "I like to see the way he saved match point. The first one was a backhand down the line," Federer said of Gasquet late resistance. "Feels like he can do that in his sleep. I admire that. I take pleasure out of him making that shot even though for a second I thought that this could have been the match point I had and end up losing the match." Roger that indeed ????????#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/i1WtMxFkuQ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × "I started as a kid with a double-handed backhand and then let go. That left-hand is just decoration right now," he shared.

Australian Open: Defending champion Roger Federer races into R16

Angelique Kerber d&nbsp;Maria Sharapova,&nbsp;6-1, 6-3

Angelique Kerber defeated Maria Sharapova in straight sets to enter the round of 16.

It was a battle of former champions at the Australian Open.

Angie looked in a hurry and had taken the first set 6-1 in just 30 minutes.

&quot;I was just trying to enjoy every point,&quot; said Kerber after snuffing out Sharapova&#39;s hopes in only her second Grand Slam tournament back since serving a 15-month doping ban.

&ldquo;I have so many great memories from this court (Rod Laver Arena) &hellip; This court is so special for me and with you guys, it&rsquo;s even more special,&rdquo; Angie said after the match.

&quot;I knew before the match it would be a tough one.&quot;&nbsp;

&quot;Everybody who knows me knows that I never give up,&quot; she added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tomas-berdych-rallies-past-del-potro-to-reach-last-16-30151" target="_blank">Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16</a>

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&quot;Everybody who knows me know that I never give up.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a> is BACK! 
 
She will play the winner of Su-Wei <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hsieh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hsieh</a> and Agnieszka <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Radwanska?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Radwanska</a> in the 4R.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ss6AnvKZh0">pic.twitter.com/Ss6AnvKZh0</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954653112299499520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 2016 winner from Germany and 21st seed roared past the Russian 2008 champion 6-1, 6-3 in 64 minutes on Rod Laver Arena on Saturday making 12 wins in a row in 2018.

With this&nbsp;victory, the 2016 champion sends a message to the rest of the tournament.

Kerber will face either 26th seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland or Taiwan&#39;s Hsieh Su-wei for a place in the quarter-finals.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a> must have a dinner reservation... ⌚️ 
 
Takes the first set 6-1 in under 30 minutes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/LfklLIJnXb">pic.twitter.com/LfklLIJnXb</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954642565499731968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kerber will face either 26th seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland or Taiwan's Hsieh Su-wei for a place in the quarter-finals

Angelique Kerber d Maria Sharapova, 6-1, 6-3 Angelique Kerber defeated Maria Sharapova in straight sets to enter the round of 16. It was a battle of former champions at the Australian Open. Angie looked in a hurry and had taken the first set 6-1 in just 30 minutes. "I was just trying to enjoy every point," said Kerber after snuffing out Sharapova's hopes in only her second Grand Slam tournament back since serving a 15-month doping ban. “I have so many great memories from this court (Rod Laver Arena) … This court is so special for me and with you guys, it’s even more special,” Angie said after the match. "I knew before the match it would be a tough one." "Everybody who knows me knows that I never give up," she added. Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16 "Everybody who knows me know that I never give up." @AngeliqueKerber is BACK! She will play the winner of Su-Wei #Hsieh and Agnieszka #Radwanska in the 4R.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/Ss6AnvKZh0 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × The 2016 winner from Germany and 21st seed roared past the Russian 2008 champion 6-1, 6-3 in 64 minutes on Rod Laver Arena on Saturday making 12 wins in a row in 2018. With this victory, the 2016 champion sends a message to the rest of the tournament. Kerber will face either 26th seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland or Taiwan's Hsieh Su-wei for a place in the quarter-finals. .@AngeliqueKerber must have a dinner reservation... ⌚️ Takes the first set 6-1 in under 30 minutes.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/LfklLIJnXb — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16

Veteran Leander Paes and Purav Raja fought off a match point to shock formidable fifth seeds Bruno Soares and Jamie Murray and progress to the men&#39;s doubles third round at the Australian Open here today.

The unseeded Indians overcame the Brazilian-Briton team 7-6(3) 5-7 7-6(6) after battling hard for close to three hours.

Left-handed Murray, world number 9 in doubles and Soares, number 10, were one of the most consistent performers in the 2017 season but it was Raja who stood out with his superlative net play today.

It was a tight contest from the beginning and after splitting the first two sets, the third set was locked 5-5 in the tie-breaker when Murray earned his side a match point on his second serve.

Raja, though came serving extremely well to not only save that match point but also earned a match point for the Indians with excellent hands at the net.

Soares served down a match point and Raja delivered a stunning backhand return winner to seal the issue.

Paes and Raja, who won two Challenger level titles to close the 2017 season, are playing their second Grand Slam together.

At the 2017 US Open, they fell in the second round.

Now they will fight it out with Colombian 11th seeds Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah for a place in the quarterfinals.

The last time 44-year-old Paes played a quarterfinal at a Grand Slam was in 2016 at French Open where he and Marcin Matkowski had lost to Mike and Bob Bryan.&nbsp;

They overcame the Brazilian-Briton team 7-6(3) 5-7 7-6(6) after battling hard for close to three hours

Veteran Leander Paes and Purav Raja fought off a match point to shock formidable fifth seeds Bruno Soares and Jamie Murray and progress to the men's doubles third round at the Australian Open here today. The unseeded Indians overcame the Brazilian-Briton team 7-6(3) 5-7 7-6(6) after battling hard for close to three hours. Left-handed Murray, world number 9 in doubles and Soares, number 10, were one of the most consistent performers in the 2017 season but it was Raja who stood out with his superlative net play today. It was a tight contest from the beginning and after splitting the first two sets, the third set was locked 5-5 in the tie-breaker when Murray earned his side a match point on his second serve. Raja, though came serving extremely well to not only save that match point but also earned a match point for the Indians with excellent hands at the net. Soares served down a match point and Raja delivered a stunning backhand return winner to seal the issue. Paes and Raja, who won two Challenger level titles to close the 2017 season, are playing their second Grand Slam together. At the 2017 US Open, they fell in the second round. Now they will fight it out with Colombian 11th seeds Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah for a place in the quarterfinals. The last time 44-year-old Paes played a quarterfinal at a Grand Slam was in 2016 at French Open where he and Marcin Matkowski had lost to Mike and Bob Bryan.

Australian Open: Leander Paes, Purav Raja save match point to make pre-quarters

Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean man ever to reach the round of 16 at the Australian Open with a five-set upset win over fourth seed Alexander Zverev on Saturday.

The 58th-ranked &nbsp;Chung beat a top-five ranked opponent for the first time with his 5-7, 7-6 (7/3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 victory in 3hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena.

He will face either six-time champion Novak Djokovic or Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in Monday&#39;s fourth round.

Chung&#39;s feat also makes him only the third South Korean player -- man or woman -- to reach the round of 16 at a Grand Slam.

&quot;It was really tough, he is a really good player and we know how to play each other,&quot; said the glasses-wearing 21-year-old, who trained in the heat of Thailand before coming to Melbourne.

&quot;I played Novak two or three years ago, so if he wins tonight I just want to enjoy things on the court.&quot;

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&quot;It was a really tough game against Alex Zverev... I&#39;m just trying to play 100% and that was the key today.&quot; 
 
What a performance from Hyeon Chung - his first win against top five opposition! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/01ADJcXoBu">pic.twitter.com/01ADJcXoBu</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954623497929613313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was another disappointing exit from a Grand Slam for the highly-ranked Zverev, whose game fell apart in the final set and was issued with a warning for smashing his racquet in frustration after a service break.

While he won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-simona-survives-an-epic-rally-beats-lauren-davis-4-6-6-4-15-13-30125" target="_blank">Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-karolina-pliskova-madison-keys-enter-fourth-round-30123" target="_blank">Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova &amp; Madison Keys enter fourth round</a>

To rub salt in the wounds, it was a Zverev family double for Chung who eliminated older brother Mischa in the first round of the tournament.

Zverev got off to a quick start to hold three set points with a backhand crosscourt and took the opening set in 44 minutes when Chung netted a forehand.

But Chung, who defeated Russian Andrey Rublev to claim his first title at the NextGen ATP finals in Milan last year, levelled the set scores with a tiebreaker win after holding three set points when the German netted a forehand.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Making history. 
 
Hyeon Chung becomes just the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 6-0.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/szU7TOljXZ">pic.twitter.com/szU7TOljXZ</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954620600420507649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zverev hit the front with a break in the third game on the way to taking the third set but Chung would not go away.

The South Korean took the match into a fifth set with a booming ace and Zverev handed over a break in the opening game of the deciding set with a double fault on triple break point.

Zverev was given a racquet abuse warning by the chair umpire after slamming his racquet into the court in frustration and suffering a second service break to trail 3-0 as his game fell away.

&nbsp;

Hyeon Chung becomes the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7, 7-6(3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0

Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean man ever to reach the round of 16 at the Australian Open with a five-set upset win over fourth seed Alexander Zverev on Saturday. The 58th-ranked Chung beat a top-five ranked opponent for the first time with his 5-7, 7-6 (7/3), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 victory in 3hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena. He will face either six-time champion Novak Djokovic or Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in Monday's fourth round. Chung's feat also makes him only the third South Korean player -- man or woman -- to reach the round of 16 at a Grand Slam. "It was really tough, he is a really good player and we know how to play each other," said the glasses-wearing 21-year-old, who trained in the heat of Thailand before coming to Melbourne. "I played Novak two or three years ago, so if he wins tonight I just want to enjoy things on the court." "It was a really tough game against Alex Zverev... I'm just trying to play 100% and that was the key today." What a performance from Hyeon Chung - his first win against top five opposition! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/01ADJcXoBu — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × It was another disappointing exit from a Grand Slam for the highly-ranked Zverev, whose game fell apart in the final set and was issued with a warning for smashing his racquet in frustration after a service break. While he won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam. Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round To rub salt in the wounds, it was a Zverev family double for Chung who eliminated older brother Mischa in the first round of the tournament. Zverev got off to a quick start to hold three set points with a backhand crosscourt and took the opening set in 44 minutes when Chung netted a forehand. But Chung, who defeated Russian Andrey Rublev to claim his first title at the NextGen ATP finals in Milan last year, levelled the set scores with a tiebreaker win after holding three set points when the German netted a forehand. Making history. Hyeon Chung becomes just the third Korean player to make the R16 at a Grand Slam, ousting No.4 seed Zverev 5-7 7-6(3) 2-6 6-3 6-0.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/szU7TOljXZ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × Zverev hit the front with a break in the third game on the way to taking the third set but Chung would not go away. The South Korean took the match into a fifth set with a booming ace and Zverev handed over a break in the opening game of the deciding set with a double fault on triple break point. Zverev was given a racquet abuse warning by the chair umpire after slamming his racquet into the court in frustration and suffering a second service break to trail 3-0 as his game fell away.

Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16

Top seed Simona Halep defeated&nbsp;Lauren Davis in a three-set thriller match on Rod Laver Arena to make the fourth round.

Halep saved three match points&nbsp;as she won a marathon third round encounter 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 against the 76th ranked American, Lauren Davis.

In a&nbsp;3hr 44min long match, both the player were not ready to give up.&nbsp;Simona Halep and Lauren Davis just played the most games of any women&#39;s match in Australian Open history.

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Three. Set. Thriller. 
 
All in a day&#39;s work for the world No.1 at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KiaTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KiaTennis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Kia_Motors?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kia_Motors</a> <a href="https://t.co/GxxPTumzNH">pic.twitter.com/GxxPTumzNH</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954566620017393666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In 3hr 44min, Simona Halep and Lauren Davis played the most games of any women&#39;s match in Australian Open history.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-karolina-pliskova-madison-keys-enter-fourth-round-30123" target="_blank">Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova &amp; Madison Keys enter fourth round</a>

Davis lost&nbsp;a toenail in the third set but even with that, she fought like a warrior. She had taken a medical timeout at 11-11 against after holding Halep in the third round.&nbsp;

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Is there anything this match doesn&#39;t have?! 
 
A medical timeout for Lauren Davis locked at 11-11 against Simona Halep. 
This is intense. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/5wztMP3caD">pic.twitter.com/5wztMP3caD</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954555541564547072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In the most thrilling match of this Grand Slam, It was Halep who made it through.

After finishing the gruelling match, she said,&nbsp;&quot;I never played the third set so long. I&#39;m almost dead,&quot;&nbsp;

&ldquo;My muscles are gone. My ankle - I don&rsquo;t know how it is because I can&rsquo;t feel it... It&#39;s great to be in 4R.&quot;

&ldquo;I won with my heart today,&rdquo;&nbsp;she added.

Finally, her red dress saved her, again.

&nbsp;

Simona Halep showed some determined defensive techniques to defeat an inspired, gutsy, fearless Lauren Davis in almost four-hour-long rally

Top seed Simona Halep defeated Lauren Davis in a three-set thriller match on Rod Laver Arena to make the fourth round. Halep saved three match points as she won a marathon third round encounter 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 against the 76th ranked American, Lauren Davis. In a 3hr 44min long match, both the player were not ready to give up. Simona Halep and Lauren Davis just played the most games of any women's match in Australian Open history. Three. Set. Thriller. All in a day's work for the world No.1 at the #AusOpen ????#KiaTennis @Kia_Motors pic.twitter.com/GxxPTumzNH — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × In 3hr 44min, Simona Halep and Lauren Davis played the most games of any women's match in Australian Open history. Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round Davis lost a toenail in the third set but even with that, she fought like a warrior. She had taken a medical timeout at 11-11 against after holding Halep in the third round. Is there anything this match doesn't have?! A medical timeout for Lauren Davis locked at 11-11 against Simona Halep. This is intense. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/5wztMP3caD — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × In the most thrilling match of this Grand Slam, It was Halep who made it through. After finishing the gruelling match, she said, "I never played the third set so long. I'm almost dead," “My muscles are gone. My ankle - I don’t know how it is because I can’t feel it... It's great to be in 4R." “I won with my heart today,” she added. Finally, her red dress saved her, again.

Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13

Roger Federer continued to rewrite his remarkable script with what was previously thought an unattainable 20th Grand Slam title Sunday, and he appears to have no plans to slow down anytime soon.

The 36-year-old Swiss marvel defied the years and attrition rate to claim a joint-record sixth Australian crown in his 30th Grand Slam decider in Melbourne on Saturday, beating Croatia&#39;s Marin Cilic in five tough sets.

It put him alongside contemporary rival Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson with the most Australian titles.

Worryingly for his opponents, the ageless star is enjoying himself as much as ever, and that inevitably means he plans to stick around for some time yet.

&quot;I&#39;m happy I&#39;m still around, still healthy, still playing good, giving myself chances, playing the best,&quot; he said last week. &quot;It&#39;s almost good fun.&quot;

Just when many people thought his Grand Slam-winning days were behind him having not won a major title since Wimbledon in 2012, Federer has now reeled off another three since his 35th birthday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-planning-melbourne-return-in-2019-31054">Roger Federer planning Melbourne return in 2019</a>

And there appears every likelihood of more to come, particularly a ninth Wimbledon crown later this year.

While he makes it look easy, it doesn&#39;t come without a tough grind behind the scenes, as Federer explained earlier in the tournament.

&quot;There&#39;s always a lot of work that goes into it during the tournament, focus, and also preparation beforehand,&quot; he said.

&quot;For many weeks and months before, you try to put yourself in the position, are you going to be ready in case a good semi-finals or quarter-finals match at the&nbsp;Australian Open, so forth.&nbsp;

&quot;This is something you sort of plan from a long time ago. That&#39;s why when it does happen, it&#39;s a great feeling.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-with-20th-grand-slam-and-counting-federer-is-immortal-31069">Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal</a>

How much it means was evident with Federer in tears at the presentation ceremony on Sunday.

And all of this with two sets of twins to look after with wife Mirka -- Myla Rose and Charlene Riva and Leo and Lenny.

A fit and healthy Federer chalking up yet another major title coincided with his long-time rivals, Rafael Nadal, Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka and Andy Murray, beginning the year with injury concerns.

Record-setter

Age certainly has not wearied the Swiss master as he was the oldest man at 36 to play in the&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;final since Australians Ken Rosewall (37) and Mal Anderson (36) faced each in the 1972 final. &nbsp;

The result is that he stretched his lead on the all-time major-winners&#39; list to 20 -- four ahead of Nadal, six in front of Pete Sampras and eight more than Djokovic.

Only three women -- Steffi Graf (22), Serena Williams (23), and Margaret Court (24) -- have been crowned champion at more Slams.

In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men&#39;s record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999, with career earnings of more than US$115 million.

Saturday&#39;s victory was also his 96th career title as he closes in on Jimmy Connors&#39; Open-Era mark of 109.

Federer, who spent a record 302 weeks at number one and was inside the top 10 from 2002 until 2015, saw his ranking slide to 17 -- his lowest since 2001 -- after he spent six months out in 2016 with a knee injury.

But it has been all upside since last year&#39;s classic five-set final win over Nadal at the&nbsp;Australian Open.&nbsp;

Despite his latest endeavour, Federer will remain world No.2 behind Nadal -- for now.

&nbsp;

In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men's record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999

Roger Federer continued to rewrite his remarkable script with what was previously thought an unattainable 20th Grand Slam title Sunday, and he appears to have no plans to slow down anytime soon. The 36-year-old Swiss marvel defied the years and attrition rate to claim a joint-record sixth Australian crown in his 30th Grand Slam decider in Melbourne on Saturday, beating Croatia's Marin Cilic in five tough sets. It put him alongside contemporary rival Novak Djokovic and Australian great Roy Emerson with the most Australian titles. Worryingly for his opponents, the ageless star is enjoying himself as much as ever, and that inevitably means he plans to stick around for some time yet. "I'm happy I'm still around, still healthy, still playing good, giving myself chances, playing the best," he said last week. "It's almost good fun." Just when many people thought his Grand Slam-winning days were behind him having not won a major title since Wimbledon in 2012, Federer has now reeled off another three since his 35th birthday. Roger Federer planning Melbourne return in 2019 And there appears every likelihood of more to come, particularly a ninth Wimbledon crown later this year. While he makes it look easy, it doesn't come without a tough grind behind the scenes, as Federer explained earlier in the tournament. "There's always a lot of work that goes into it during the tournament, focus, and also preparation beforehand," he said. "For many weeks and months before, you try to put yourself in the position, are you going to be ready in case a good semi-finals or quarter-finals match at the Australian Open, so forth. "This is something you sort of plan from a long time ago. That's why when it does happen, it's a great feeling." Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal How much it means was evident with Federer in tears at the presentation ceremony on Sunday. And all of this with two sets of twins to look after with wife Mirka -- Myla Rose and Charlene Riva and Leo and Lenny. A fit and healthy Federer chalking up yet another major title coincided with his long-time rivals, Rafael Nadal, Djokovic, Stan Wawrinka and Andy Murray, beginning the year with injury concerns. Record-setter Age certainly has not wearied the Swiss master as he was the oldest man at 36 to play in the Australian Open final since Australians Ken Rosewall (37) and Mal Anderson (36) faced each in the 1972 final. The result is that he stretched his lead on the all-time major-winners' list to 20 -- four ahead of Nadal, six in front of Pete Sampras and eight more than Djokovic. Only three women -- Steffi Graf (22), Serena Williams (23), and Margaret Court (24) -- have been crowned champion at more Slams. In an endless list of records, he also holds the all-time men's record of 332 Grand Slam wins since playing his first in 1999, with career earnings of more than US$115 million. Saturday's victory was also his 96th career title as he closes in on Jimmy Connors' Open-Era mark of 109. Federer, who spent a record 302 weeks at number one and was inside the top 10 from 2002 until 2015, saw his ranking slide to 17 -- his lowest since 2001 -- after he spent six months out in 2016 with a knee injury. But it has been all upside since last year's classic five-set final win over Nadal at the Australian Open. Despite his latest endeavour, Federer will remain world No.2 behind Nadal -- for now.

With 20 Grand Slam titles on board, 'Fed-express' to not stop

Former world number one Novak Djokovic came back from six months off the tennis circuit due to an elbow injury to play the Australian Open at the start of the new season. The first of four grand slam tournaments between January and September takes place in Melbourne at the height of Australia&rsquo;s summer. In recent years, it has become sport&rsquo;s most dramatic illustration of the effects of global warming. Year after year, daytime temperatures climb to increasingly unbearable levels for the players, many of whom are forced to retire before completing their best-of-five set match.

Early in the tournament, after several hours struggling in extreme heat to defeat Gael Monfils, Djokovic expressed his growing concern.&nbsp;Here is how he describes&nbsp;the state of tennis&nbsp;today: &ldquo;Our sport has become an industry. It&rsquo;s more business than a sport. At times I don&rsquo;t like that. Of course, we&rsquo;re all blessed to have great financial compensation, great lives. I&rsquo;m very grateful for that. At the same time, what is most important for us is our health and what happens after our careers, after you&rsquo;re 30, 35.&rdquo;

This raises a serious question: Does it make sense to call an individual sport in which two players strike a ball on opposite sides of a net an industry? Perhaps the word &ldquo;industry&rdquo; has changed its meaning.

Here is today&rsquo;s 3D definition:

Industry:

Every human activity from which a profit can be earned. Formerly, industry only applied to those human activities that required high levels of investment and organization to produce and distribute goods.

CONTEXTUAL NOTE

Sport is one of the mainstays of the attention economy. When traditionally shared social values end up in tatters as a result of ever-increasing consumerist individualism, people turn to competitive sport as an alternative to religion, patriotism and politics &mdash; on which no one can agree &mdash; to anchor their loyalties and even their identity. The movers and shakers of the attention economy have seized the occasion and progressively exploited the trend to the point at which the athletes themselves have become products and the most successful ones brands in their own right. The uncontested stars of their sport attract far more revenue from their chosen corporate sponsors than from the increasingly well-endowed prize money they earn from competing.

Djokovic doesn&rsquo;t fail to express his gratitude for the windfall this represents for his own well-being. But in moments like these, when it becomes obvious that the power of commercial interests dwarfs the power and skill of finely tuned athletes and endangers their livelihood, the Serbian champion allows himself to express some minor misgivings about the cynicism of a system more focused on a sponsor&rsquo;s bottom line than the court&rsquo;s rectangular white lines and the players&rsquo; longevity.

HISTORICAL NOTE

There is a double movement in the modern history of sports and tennis in particular. Amateur sports were long considered the ideal. To qualify for the Olympic Games and to participate in a tennis grand slam (Paris, Wimbledon, New York, Melbourne) one had to be an amateur. Pros were not allowed to compete. As a result, for most of the 20th-century amateur athletes were often held in higher esteem than professionals. Exactly 50 years ago, in 1968, the four prestigious grand slam tennis tournaments became &ldquo;Opens,&rdquo; allowing professional tennis players to compete for the first time.

The growing popularity of televised sporting events opened the door to sponsorship on a dramatically new level. Famous athletes had always been courted by commercial interests, but this is when the trend to brand everything began. Athletes themselves became first products and then brands. Today, their image is often managed by their direct sponsors and they are coached to &ldquo;say nice things&rdquo; about the sponsors of events, who made it possible for them to compete. The organizers of major tournaments, which attract hundreds of millions of spectators through the media, have become adept at milking every possible profit out of their events and the performing athletes, even when their health may be at risk.

The sport, in other words, has become the window dressing of an industry. The athletes, to a large extent interchangeable &mdash; with the exception of stars such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic &mdash; have become their cash cow or the goose that lays the golden eggs. Djokovic,&nbsp;followed by Nadal, has allowed himself to wonder out loud how many more golden eggs their industrial masters will allow them to lay.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/culture/australian-open-tennis-novak-djokovic-sports-news-25095/">article </a>was published originally in the <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/">Fair Observer</a>.

Playing in the hot Australian summer, Djokovic says tennis is more of a business than a sport.

Former world number one Novak Djokovic came back from six months off the tennis circuit due to an elbow injury to play the Australian Open at the start of the new season. The first of four grand slam tournaments between January and September takes place in Melbourne at the height of Australia’s summer. In recent years, it has become sport’s most dramatic illustration of the effects of global warming. Year after year, daytime temperatures climb to increasingly unbearable levels for the players, many of whom are forced to retire before completing their best-of-five set match. Early in the tournament, after several hours struggling in extreme heat to defeat Gael Monfils, Djokovic expressed his growing concern. Here is how he describes the state of tennis today: “Our sport has become an industry. It’s more business than a sport. At times I don’t like that. Of course, we’re all blessed to have great financial compensation, great lives. I’m very grateful for that. At the same time, what is most important for us is our health and what happens after our careers, after you’re 30, 35.” This raises a serious question: Does it make sense to call an individual sport in which two players strike a ball on opposite sides of a net an industry? Perhaps the word “industry” has changed its meaning. Here is today’s 3D definition: Industry: Every human activity from which a profit can be earned. Formerly, industry only applied to those human activities that required high levels of investment and organization to produce and distribute goods. CONTEXTUAL NOTE Sport is one of the mainstays of the attention economy. When traditionally shared social values end up in tatters as a result of ever-increasing consumerist individualism, people turn to competitive sport as an alternative to religion, patriotism and politics — on which no one can agree — to anchor their loyalties and even their identity. The movers and shakers of the attention economy have seized the occasion and progressively exploited the trend to the point at which the athletes themselves have become products and the most successful ones brands in their own right. The uncontested stars of their sport attract far more revenue from their chosen corporate sponsors than from the increasingly well-endowed prize money they earn from competing. Djokovic doesn’t fail to express his gratitude for the windfall this represents for his own well-being. But in moments like these, when it becomes obvious that the power of commercial interests dwarfs the power and skill of finely tuned athletes and endangers their livelihood, the Serbian champion allows himself to express some minor misgivings about the cynicism of a system more focused on a sponsor’s bottom line than the court’s rectangular white lines and the players’ longevity. HISTORICAL NOTE There is a double movement in the modern history of sports and tennis in particular. Amateur sports were long considered the ideal. To qualify for the Olympic Games and to participate in a tennis grand slam (Paris, Wimbledon, New York, Melbourne) one had to be an amateur. Pros were not allowed to compete. As a result, for most of the 20th-century amateur athletes were often held in higher esteem than professionals. Exactly 50 years ago, in 1968, the four prestigious grand slam tennis tournaments became “Opens,” allowing professional tennis players to compete for the first time. The growing popularity of televised sporting events opened the door to sponsorship on a dramatically new level. Famous athletes had always been courted by commercial interests, but this is when the trend to brand everything began. Athletes themselves became first products and then brands. Today, their image is often managed by their direct sponsors and they are coached to “say nice things” about the sponsors of events, who made it possible for them to compete. The organizers of major tournaments, which attract hundreds of millions of spectators through the media, have become adept at milking every possible profit out of their events and the performing athletes, even when their health may be at risk. The sport, in other words, has become the window dressing of an industry. The athletes, to a large extent interchangeable — with the exception of stars such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic — have become their cash cow or the goose that lays the golden eggs. Djokovic, followed by Nadal, has allowed himself to wonder out loud how many more golden eggs their industrial masters will allow them to lay. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) This article was published originally in the Fair Observer.

Opinion: Is Tennis an “Industry”?

At its zenith, the British Empire was so extensive that it was told, &ldquo;this is the empire on which sun never sets&rdquo;.

&nbsp;

So during the last two weeks when Roger Federer was demolishing best of Tennis talent from across the globe at Australian Open, this phrase was echoing in my mind. Here is the enigma called Federer, who is playing professional Tennis for the last two decades yet continues to be a world beater. We can say, just like the British Empire, the sun will never set on Federer&#39;s career.

&nbsp;

We need to realise, once upon a time deep in the past, Federer won his first Grand Slam. That was July 2003. Mark Zuckerberg was still writing codes of Facebook, Barack Obama was just an Illinois State Senator, our hero MS Dhoni was toiling to make a mark at national level Cricket, Android &amp; smartphone did not exist and Apple hadn&rsquo;t even conceptualized its first iPhone.

&nbsp;

In one of the most competitive, popular and demanding sports, in which men from across length and breadth of the globe are toiling hard to make a mark, maintaining a winning spree the at the top level, for so long, is unequivocally no less than a miracle. At the top of it, in the Australia Open of 2018, Federer stormed in his 30th Grand Slam final, without dropping a set.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Till 2012, Federer had become, arguably, the greatest Tennis player of all times (GOAT) but the way he has propelled himself over the past 13 months, he is now even way beyond this &#39;GOAT&#39; discussion. He is reaching a level when he is set to symbolise the very sports he has been representing for all those years. Federer is to Tennis, what Pele is to Football &amp; Usain Bolt is to sprinting.

&nbsp;

With the 20th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park, Federer is at the unassailable summit. Federer is the only man in history who has won three Grand Slams at least five times. He won his 17th Grand Slam in 2012 (Wimbledon). The tally remained the same until the end of 2016. Even the most ardent of Federer&rsquo;s fans started believing that it was for the love for the game that Federer was stuck to court and as such 17 would remain his final tally. But with Australian Open last year, Federer spun a huge surprise. His resurgence with a bang has been quite unique and epitomises his greatness.

&nbsp;

But let&rsquo;s put number and statistics aside for a while, Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style. The sign of greatest sportsperson is that they make things look so simple. If you see Shane Warne bowling and cueist Ronny &lsquo;O&rsquo; Sullivan clearing snooker table, you would feel how simple it is to bowl a leg-break or play snooker. Federer is in this class. His movement on courts are so rhythmic and at the top of it, single-handed backhand with clinical precision is Federer&rsquo;s biggest weapon. In fact, fluency in playing style is the secret of his longevity as his style is far less sapping on his body.

&nbsp;

Federer is the most complete player as Jimmy Connors once rightly described him &ldquo;There are four kinds of players in Tennis, hard court specialist, grass court specialist, clay court specialist and Roger Federer&rdquo;. He is such a perfect mixture of elegance, power and hard work that it is like Edberg, Sampras and Agassi rolled into one player.

&nbsp;

Marin Cilic deserves a mention too. Cilic had an unambiguous run till the final where he failed to conquer the big wall. With two finals in three Grand Slams, Cilic is nearing breakthrough and would be a player to watch in 2018.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Women Tennis, on the contrary, is being driven by a pool of many players who are at par with each other. After Williams sisters and Belgian duo Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters, Women Tennis is still waiting for the next breakthrough player. There are many players on the WTA with 1 or 2 Slams under their belt but none ruling the roost. This is well manifested by the fact that at the Australian Open of 2018, top two seeded players were playing in the final for their first Grand Slam.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Playing in her 43rd Grand Slam, when 2nd seeded Caroline Wozniacki was pumping her fist after winning her first Slam, I was recalling that tall big serve Croatian Goran Ivanisevic. Ivanisevic won his first Slam 13 years after he turned pro and after playing in more than 35 Slams.

&nbsp;

Wozniacki attained the top rank at the WTA way back in 2010 but then in August 2016, she hit a ranking as low as 74. In the second round match at the Australian Open she was 1-5 down in the final set and was facing two match points, but she showed nerves and staged an incredible comeback and never looked back. Considering this, her victory is unique. However it is to be seen that how her success will sustain in days to come, considering the volatility in Women&rsquo;s Tennis.

&nbsp;

But the bottom line remains that Australian Open would be known for one thing. It has delivered a clear verdict that Federer is immortal.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Roger Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style.

At its zenith, the British Empire was so extensive that it was told, “this is the empire on which sun never sets”. So during the last two weeks when Roger Federer was demolishing best of Tennis talent from across the globe at Australian Open, this phrase was echoing in my mind. Here is the enigma called Federer, who is playing professional Tennis for the last two decades yet continues to be a world beater. We can say, just like the British Empire, the sun will never set on Federer's career. We need to realise, once upon a time deep in the past, Federer won his first Grand Slam. That was July 2003. Mark Zuckerberg was still writing codes of Facebook, Barack Obama was just an Illinois State Senator, our hero MS Dhoni was toiling to make a mark at national level Cricket, Android & smartphone did not exist and Apple hadn’t even conceptualized its first iPhone. In one of the most competitive, popular and demanding sports, in which men from across length and breadth of the globe are toiling hard to make a mark, maintaining a winning spree the at the top level, for so long, is unequivocally no less than a miracle. At the top of it, in the Australia Open of 2018, Federer stormed in his 30th Grand Slam final, without dropping a set. Till 2012, Federer had become, arguably, the greatest Tennis player of all times (GOAT) but the way he has propelled himself over the past 13 months, he is now even way beyond this 'GOAT' discussion. He is reaching a level when he is set to symbolise the very sports he has been representing for all those years. Federer is to Tennis, what Pele is to Football & Usain Bolt is to sprinting. With the 20th Grand Slam at Melbourne Park, Federer is at the unassailable summit. Federer is the only man in history who has won three Grand Slams at least five times. He won his 17th Grand Slam in 2012 (Wimbledon). The tally remained the same until the end of 2016. Even the most ardent of Federer’s fans started believing that it was for the love for the game that Federer was stuck to court and as such 17 would remain his final tally. But with Australian Open last year, Federer spun a huge surprise. His resurgence with a bang has been quite unique and epitomises his greatness. But let’s put number and statistics aside for a while, Federer is the greatest because of his alluring and slick playing style. The sign of greatest sportsperson is that they make things look so simple. If you see Shane Warne bowling and cueist Ronny ‘O’ Sullivan clearing snooker table, you would feel how simple it is to bowl a leg-break or play snooker. Federer is in this class. His movement on courts are so rhythmic and at the top of it, single-handed backhand with clinical precision is Federer’s biggest weapon. In fact, fluency in playing style is the secret of his longevity as his style is far less sapping on his body. Federer is the most complete player as Jimmy Connors once rightly described him “There are four kinds of players in Tennis, hard court specialist, grass court specialist, clay court specialist and Roger Federer”. He is such a perfect mixture of elegance, power and hard work that it is like Edberg, Sampras and Agassi rolled into one player. Marin Cilic deserves a mention too. Cilic had an unambiguous run till the final where he failed to conquer the big wall. With two finals in three Grand Slams, Cilic is nearing breakthrough and would be a player to watch in 2018. Women Tennis, on the contrary, is being driven by a pool of many players who are at par with each other. After Williams sisters and Belgian duo Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters, Women Tennis is still waiting for the next breakthrough player. There are many players on the WTA with 1 or 2 Slams under their belt but none ruling the roost. This is well manifested by the fact that at the Australian Open of 2018, top two seeded players were playing in the final for their first Grand Slam. Playing in her 43rd Grand Slam, when 2nd seeded Caroline Wozniacki was pumping her fist after winning her first Slam, I was recalling that tall big serve Croatian Goran Ivanisevic. Ivanisevic won his first Slam 13 years after he turned pro and after playing in more than 35 Slams. Wozniacki attained the top rank at the WTA way back in 2010 but then in August 2016, she hit a ranking as low as 74. In the second round match at the Australian Open she was 1-5 down in the final set and was facing two match points, but she showed nerves and staged an incredible comeback and never looked back. Considering this, her victory is unique. However it is to be seen that how her success will sustain in days to come, considering the volatility in Women’s Tennis. But the bottom line remains that Australian Open would be known for one thing. It has delivered a clear verdict that Federer is immortal. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: With 20th Grand Slam and counting, Federer is immortal

Fourth seed Elina Svitolina ended the first Grand Slam odyssey of 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk in straights sets on Friday.

The Ukrainian world number four breezed past her compatriot 6-2, 6-2 in just 59 minutes on a searing day on Rod Laver Arena.

&quot;It&#39;s very special for me to get past the third round,&quot; said Svitolina, who will be in the last 16 for the first time in Melbourne where she will face another qualifier, Denisa Allertova.

&quot;It&#39;s sad I was playing another Ukrainian girl.&quot;&nbsp;

Kostyuk had been labelled the &quot;future of tennis&quot; by some observers after becoming the youngest Australian Open second-round winner since &quot;Swiss Miss&quot; Martina Hingis in 1996.

But she produced a nervous, error-strewn display against Svitolina and was inconsolable as she returned to the locker room.

&quot;She&#39;s definitely got a bright future,&quot; said Svitolina. &quot;We&#39;ll be hearing a lot more about her.&quot;

The Ukrainian world number four breezed past her compatriot 6-2, 6-2 in just 59 minutes on a searing day on Rod Laver Arena.

Fourth seed Elina Svitolina ended the first Grand Slam odyssey of 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk in straights sets on Friday. The Ukrainian world number four breezed past her compatriot 6-2, 6-2 in just 59 minutes on a searing day on Rod Laver Arena. "It's very special for me to get past the third round," said Svitolina, who will be in the last 16 for the first time in Melbourne where she will face another qualifier, Denisa Allertova. "It's sad I was playing another Ukrainian girl." Kostyuk had been labelled the "future of tennis" by some observers after becoming the youngest Australian Open second-round winner since "Swiss Miss" Martina Hingis in 1996. But she produced a nervous, error-strewn display against Svitolina and was inconsolable as she returned to the locker room. "She's definitely got a bright future," said Svitolina. "We'll be hearing a lot more about her."

Australian Open: Svitolina ends teen sensation Marta Kostyuk's dream run

World number one Simona Halep cruised into the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday with an easy 6-2, 6-2 victory over Eugenie Bouchard.

The Romanian top seed needed just an hour and five minutes to sweep past the Canadian on Margaret Court Arena.

She will face unseeded American Lauren Davis on Saturday for a place in the last 16 as she steps up her quest for a first Grand Slam title.

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&quot;I feel the pain but I didn&#39;t think about it. I just wanted to play the match and to win it.&quot; 
 
[1] <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simona_Halep</a> defeats Eugenie <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bouchard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bouchard</a> 6-2 6-2 to progress to the third round.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/M6mSqZJ2TJ">pic.twitter.com/M6mSqZJ2TJ</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953920868379275265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Romanian top seed needed just an hour and five minutes to sweep past the Canadian on Margaret Court Arena

World number one Simona Halep cruised into the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday with an easy 6-2, 6-2 victory over Eugenie Bouchard. The Romanian top seed needed just an hour and five minutes to sweep past the Canadian on Margaret Court Arena. She will face unseeded American Lauren Davis on Saturday for a place in the last 16 as she steps up her quest for a first Grand Slam title. "I feel the pain but I didn't think about it. I just wanted to play the match and to win it." [1] @Simona_Halep defeats Eugenie #Bouchard 6-2 6-2 to progress to the third round.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/M6mSqZJ2TJ — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Simona Halep thrashes Eugenie Bouchard to reach third round

Former Australian Open <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-caroline-wozniacki-foils-jana-fett-enters-second-round-29806">champion Maria Sharapova ranked 48th the world</a> beat 14th seed Latvian Anastasija Sevastova in straight sets to enter the third round of the Australian Open at Melbourne.

Sharapova overpowered<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-elina-svitolina-survives-second-round-belinda-bencic-exits-29786"> her opponent &nbsp;6-1, 7-6 (7/4) as she</a> demolished Sevastova in scintillating style. The first set between the two players lasted just 23 minutes.

Even though Sharapova had difficulty in closing the match as Sevastova put up a last ditch effort to remain in the match, the Russian had no trouble in beating the Latvian who had stopped her in the quarterfinals of the US Open last year.

Sharapova may meet 2016 Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber in the next round if the German comes through in round-2.

Sharapova overpowered her opponent 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) as she demolished Sevastova in scintillating style

Former Australian Open champion Maria Sharapova ranked 48th the world beat 14th seed Latvian Anastasija Sevastova in straight sets to enter the third round of the Australian Open at Melbourne. Sharapova overpowered her opponent 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) as she demolished Sevastova in scintillating style. The first set between the two players lasted just 23 minutes. Even though Sharapova had difficulty in closing the match as Sevastova put up a last ditch effort to remain in the match, the Russian had no trouble in beating the Latvian who had stopped her in the quarterfinals of the US Open last year. Sharapova may meet 2016 Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber in the next round if the German comes through in round-2.

Australian Open: Sharapova demolishes Sevastova, enters third round

Struggling Swiss former winner Stan Wawrinka&#39;s Australian Open campaign is over after a convincing second round defeat by American Tennys Sandgren on Thursday.

The 97th-ranked Sandgren downed ninth seeded Wawrinka 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 and will next play Germany&#39;s Maximilian Marterer.

It has been tough so far this year for Wawrinka, who was playing in his first tournament since Wimbledon six months ago following left knee surgery.

&quot;Today was extremely tough to feel that way on the court, to lose that way, even if he was playing well,&quot; Wawrinka said.

&quot;When you have won three Grand Slams, you don&#39;t feel great on the court like today. But I need to be still positive. I think the last 12 days was more than what I could have dreamed for coming here.&quot;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-federer-subdues-hard-hitting-struff-30000" target="_blank">Federer struts his stuff, then knuckles down to beat Germany&#39;s Struff</a>

&quot;I really came without thinking I will be able to play the first match. That&#39;s a big step for me.&quot;

&quot;I only had surgery five months and three days ago and to be that far already, it&#39;s more than what we could have expected with my team.&quot;

He was never in the contest and had his serve broken five times and made only 21 winners and 35 unforced errors.

The three-time Grand Slam winner, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win the 2014 Australian Open, has slipped to nine in the world rankings and faces a battle to climb higher after his early round exit.

He made the semi-finals at last year&#39;s Australian Open where he lost to eventual champion Roger Federer in five sets.

Wawrinka had a troubled lead-in to the year&#39;s opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi on his way to Australia.

He had not played a competitive match prior to his first round Open win over Lithuania&#39;s Ricardas Berankis, having only decided to take part last weekend.

&quot;My plan is to leave here and go back to practice, especially fitness-wise at the beginning,&quot; Wawrinka said of his future plans.

&quot;I know I have a lot of work to do. I need to be really patient. It&#39;s going to be tough. But I&#39;m ready for it.&quot;

He said his next tournaments would be Marseille and Rotterdam.

Sandgren&#39;s next opponent, world No.94 Marterer, reached the third round with a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 over Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco.

&quot;This would definitely be (the biggest match),&quot; Sandgren said of his win over Wawrinka.

&quot;All the categories: biggest win, biggest moment of getting a victory, setting me up for the biggest stage to play third round of a Slam, biggest opportunity. All those good things.&quot;

 
&nbsp;

Wawrinka was playing in his first tournament since Wimbledon six months ago following left knee surgery

Struggling Swiss former winner Stan Wawrinka's Australian Open campaign is over after a convincing second round defeat by American Tennys Sandgren on Thursday. The 97th-ranked Sandgren downed ninth seeded Wawrinka 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 and will next play Germany's Maximilian Marterer. It has been tough so far this year for Wawrinka, who was playing in his first tournament since Wimbledon six months ago following left knee surgery. "Today was extremely tough to feel that way on the court, to lose that way, even if he was playing well," Wawrinka said. "When you have won three Grand Slams, you don't feel great on the court like today. But I need to be still positive. I think the last 12 days was more than what I could have dreamed for coming here." Also read: Federer struts his stuff, then knuckles down to beat Germany's Struff "I really came without thinking I will be able to play the first match. That's a big step for me." "I only had surgery five months and three days ago and to be that far already, it's more than what we could have expected with my team." He was never in the contest and had his serve broken five times and made only 21 winners and 35 unforced errors. The three-time Grand Slam winner, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win the 2014 Australian Open, has slipped to nine in the world rankings and faces a battle to climb higher after his early round exit. He made the semi-finals at last year's Australian Open where he lost to eventual champion Roger Federer in five sets. Wawrinka had a troubled lead-in to the year's opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi on his way to Australia. He had not played a competitive match prior to his first round Open win over Lithuania's Ricardas Berankis, having only decided to take part last weekend. "My plan is to leave here and go back to practice, especially fitness-wise at the beginning," Wawrinka said of his future plans. "I know I have a lot of work to do. I need to be really patient. It's going to be tough. But I'm ready for it." He said his next tournaments would be Marseille and Rotterdam. Sandgren's next opponent, world No.94 Marterer, reached the third round with a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3 over Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco. "This would definitely be (the biggest match)," Sandgren said of his win over Wawrinka. "All the categories: biggest win, biggest moment of getting a victory, setting me up for the biggest stage to play third round of a Slam, biggest opportunity. All those good things."

Australian Open: Struggling Wawrinka struggles some more, loses tennis game to Tennys Sandgren

Defending champion, top-seeded, Roger Federer recently shared a picture with a cute&nbsp;quokka, from his tour of Australia. He is there to play the first grand slam of 2018, Australian Open.

Quokka, which is similar to a wallaby or kangaroo captured smiling with the legend as if it was waiting for this selfie moment.

Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017.

He along with Belinda Bencic of Switzerland won the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final.

Not only him, Karolina Pliskova a &nbsp;Czech professional tennis player shared an image with Rennae Stubbs, an Australian retired tennis player.

In the image, both of them posed with a fluffy koala bear.

Also David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player seen pampering the same koala bear.

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???? Cuteness overload ???? 
 
Looks like <a href="https://twitter.com/David__Goffin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David__Goffin</a> has a new boo. ????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/qoomvpRe8u">pic.twitter.com/qoomvpRe8u</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953544192923377664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Seriously, too much cuteness. &quot;How much can a Koala bear...&quot;

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How much can a koala bear...? 
 
Two former world #1&rsquo;s apparently... <a href="https://twitter.com/KaPliskova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KaPliskova</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/rennaestubbs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rennaestubbs</a> meet a furry friend! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/F50jqbNuIh">pic.twitter.com/F50jqbNuIh</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953509534579924992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Elina Svitolina of&nbsp;Ukraine doesn&#39;t look like a snake loving person. She appeared little frightened of the giant snake, Ahh, obviously.

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Safe to say: <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElinaSvitolina</a> is not a fan of snakes ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ausopen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ausopen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lobrg9lje9">pic.twitter.com/Lobrg9lje9</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953539677067161600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Just casual post match interview with <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Channel7</a> ! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#australia</a> ???? <a href="https://t.co/szGMl8bTE0">pic.twitter.com/szGMl8bTE0</a>
&mdash; Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina/status/953492159239344128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player captured pampering a cute koala bear, Elina Svitolina snapped with a giant snake

Defending champion, top-seeded, Roger Federer recently shared a picture with a cute quokka, from his tour of Australia. He is there to play the first grand slam of 2018, Australian Open. Quokka, which is similar to a wallaby or kangaroo captured smiling with the legend as if it was waiting for this selfie moment. Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017. He along with Belinda Bencic of Switzerland won the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final. Not only him, Karolina Pliskova a Czech professional tennis player shared an image with Rennae Stubbs, an Australian retired tennis player. In the image, both of them posed with a fluffy koala bear. Also David Goffin, a Belgian professional tennis player seen pampering the same koala bear. ???? Cuteness overload ???? Looks like @David__Goffin has a new boo. ????????#ausopen pic.twitter.com/qoomvpRe8u — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Seriously, too much cuteness. "How much can a Koala bear..." How much can a koala bear...? Two former world #1’s apparently... @KaPliskova & @rennaestubbs meet a furry friend! ???? #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/F50jqbNuIh — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Elina Svitolina of Ukraine doesn't look like a snake loving person. She appeared little frightened of the giant snake, Ahh, obviously. Safe to say: @ElinaSvitolina is not a fan of snakes ????????????#ausopen pic.twitter.com/Lobrg9lje9 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Just casual post match interview with @Channel7 ! #australia ???? pic.twitter.com/szGMl8bTE0 — Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) January 17, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Tennis stars show love for animals

From legends to newcomers, young champs to evergreen names, Australian Open, the first grand slam of 2018, has seen a lot in the stage matches.

Croatia&#39;s Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to reach the third round in 40 years when he defeated Japan&#39;s Yuichi Sugita in five sets,&nbsp;7-6(3) 6-7(3) 7-5 4-6.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tsonga-races-to-second-round-outplays-denis-shapovalov-29805" target="_blank">Australian Open: Tsonga races to third round, outplays Denis Shapovalov</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-caroline-wozniacki-foils-jana-fett-enters-second-round-29806" target="_blank">Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki foils Jana Fett, enters second round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-rafa-nadal-storms-to-third-round-so-as-marin-cilic-29808" target="_blank">Australian Open: Rafa Nadal storms to third round, so as Marin Cilic</a>

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There aren&rsquo;t many things in life you&rsquo;re guaranteed, but an <a href="https://twitter.com/ivokarlovic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IvoKarlovic</a> five set epic is one of them! 
 
Tops Sugita 7-6(3) 6-7(3) 7-5 4-6 12-10 for a place in the third round.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/E89xc74yJL">pic.twitter.com/E89xc74yJL</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953522897531715584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Evergreen Karlovic, ranked down at 89 in the world, also reached the third round last year when he lost to David Goffin.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-jack-sock-upset-other-two-women-players-during-match-29821" target="_blank">Also&nbsp;Watch: Federer, Jack Sock upset other two women players during match</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-found-guilty-ofunsportsmanlike-conduct-fined-29791" target="_blank">Also read: Nick Kyrgios found guilty of &#39;unsportsmanlike conduct&#39;, fined</a>

Whereas, Ukrainian 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk became the&nbsp;youngest&nbsp;player to reach the third round of a grand slam in over 20 years when she defeated local wildcard Olivia Rogowska at the Australian Open on Wednesday.

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Marta Kostyuk, 15 years old, ranked #521 but junior world number two, beats Olivia Rogowska 6-3, 7-5 to reach the 3rd round of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a>. Incredible story. <a href="https://t.co/9DyCoPIby1">pic.twitter.com/9DyCoPIby1</a>
&mdash; Jos&eacute; Morgado (@josemorgado) <a href="https://twitter.com/josemorgado/status/953441920826707968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In her grand slam debut and first main draw appearance at a WTA tournament, Kostyuk had already become the&nbsp;youngest&nbsp;player to win a match at the Australian Open.

&nbsp;

Ukrainian 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk became the youngest player to reach the third round of a grand slam in over 20 years

From legends to newcomers, young champs to evergreen names, Australian Open, the first grand slam of 2018, has seen a lot in the stage matches. Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to reach the third round in 40 years when he defeated Japan's Yuichi Sugita in five sets, 7-6(3) 6-7(3) 7-5 4-6. Australian Open: Tsonga races to third round, outplays Denis Shapovalov Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki foils Jana Fett, enters second round Australian Open: Rafa Nadal storms to third round, so as Marin Cilic There aren’t many things in life you’re guaranteed, but an @IvoKarlovic five set epic is one of them! Tops Sugita 7-6(3) 6-7(3) 7-5 4-6 12-10 for a place in the third round.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/E89xc74yJL — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Evergreen Karlovic, ranked down at 89 in the world, also reached the third round last year when he lost to David Goffin. Also Watch: Federer, Jack Sock upset other two women players during match Also read: Nick Kyrgios found guilty of 'unsportsmanlike conduct', fined Whereas, Ukrainian 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk became the youngest player to reach the third round of a grand slam in over 20 years when she defeated local wildcard Olivia Rogowska at the Australian Open on Wednesday. Marta Kostyuk, 15 years old, ranked #521 but junior world number two, beats Olivia Rogowska 6-3, 7-5 to reach the 3rd round of the #AusOpen. Incredible story. pic.twitter.com/9DyCoPIby1 — José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 17, 2018 × In her grand slam debut and first main draw appearance at a WTA tournament, Kostyuk had already become the youngest player to win a match at the Australian Open.

Australian Open: Oldest Ivo Karlovic, youngest Marta Kostyuk enter third round

Rafa Nadal d&nbsp;Leonardo Mayer,&nbsp;6-3 6-4 7-6 (4)

Top seed Rafa Nadal continued his marauding path through the Australian Open, hammering Argentine Leonardo Mayer 6-3 6-4 7-6 (4) in&nbsp;two hours and 38 minutes to reach the third round on Wednesday.

A masterful performance was blighted only by a late wobble when Nadal was broken serving for the match at 5-4 in the decider.

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&ldquo;For my team and my family, this tournament is their favourite of the year so I want to stay as long as possible.&rdquo; 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/PpeoQynXNN">pic.twitter.com/PpeoQynXNN</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953546024164864000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But the Spaniard found an extra gear in the tiebreak, wrapping up the match with a monster serve to the corner that Mayer battled to get a racket to.

Nadal&#39;s bid for a 17th grand slam title continues against Bosnian 28th seed Damir Dzumhur.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> was very thankful of the <a href="https://twitter.com/RodLaverArena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RodLaverArena</a> crowd support in his post-match interview.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/fWyXbaxOMu">pic.twitter.com/fWyXbaxOMu</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953545182741327872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Marin Cilic d&nbsp;Joao Sousa,&nbsp;6-1, 7-5, 6-2

Croatia&#39;s sixth seed Marin Cilic advanced to the third round of the Australian Open with a straight-sets win over Portugal&#39;s Joao Sousa on Wednesday.

Cilic, last year&#39;s Wimbledon finalist, downed the 70th-ranked Sousa 6-1, 7-5, 6-2 and will next play either American Ryan Harrison or Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay.

&nbsp;

Croatia's sixth seed Marin Cilic advanced to the third round of the Australian Open with a straight-sets

Rafa Nadal d Leonardo Mayer, 6-3 6-4 7-6 (4) Top seed Rafa Nadal continued his marauding path through the Australian Open, hammering Argentine Leonardo Mayer 6-3 6-4 7-6 (4) in two hours and 38 minutes to reach the third round on Wednesday. A masterful performance was blighted only by a late wobble when Nadal was broken serving for the match at 5-4 in the decider. “For my team and my family, this tournament is their favourite of the year so I want to stay as long as possible.” - @RafaelNadal #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/PpeoQynXNN — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × But the Spaniard found an extra gear in the tiebreak, wrapping up the match with a monster serve to the corner that Mayer battled to get a racket to. Nadal's bid for a 17th grand slam title continues against Bosnian 28th seed Damir Dzumhur. .@RafaelNadal was very thankful of the @RodLaverArena crowd support in his post-match interview.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/fWyXbaxOMu — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Marin Cilic d Joao Sousa, 6-1, 7-5, 6-2 Croatia's sixth seed Marin Cilic advanced to the third round of the Australian Open with a straight-sets win over Portugal's Joao Sousa on Wednesday. Cilic, last year's Wimbledon finalist, downed the 70th-ranked Sousa 6-1, 7-5, 6-2 and will next play either American Ryan Harrison or Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay.

Australian Open: Rafa Nadal storms to third round, so as Marin Cilic

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga d&nbsp;Denis Shapovalov,&nbsp;3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5

Former winner Jo-Wilfried Tsonga fought back to vanquish rising Canadian star Denis Shapovalov in a five-set thriller at the Australian Open on Wednesday.

The 15th seed looked dead and buried trailing 2-5 in the final set before 18-year-old Shapovalov faltered and the experienced Frenchman seized the initiative.

Tsonga stormed into the third round after a 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 win in 3hr 37min on Margaret Court Arena and will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia&#39;s Viktor Troicki in the third round.

It ended his three-match losing run in five-setters and reversed his loss to Shapovalov in straight sets in the second round at last year&#39;s US Open.

&quot;I&#39;m tired, but really happy,&quot; Tsonga said. &quot;I did a big fight today.

&quot;It&#39;s not easy against these young guns, they go for everything, but I just continued to fight.&quot;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/tsonga7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tsonga7</a> is CLUTCH ???? 
 
The Frenchman wins five straight games in the fifth to d <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shapovalov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shapovalov</a> 3-6 6-3 1-6 7-6(4) 7-5. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/tv71nleAyV">pic.twitter.com/tv71nleAyV</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953502594193702913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It extended Tsonga&#39;s record at the Australian Open to 36-10 after he was runner-up to Novak Djokovic in 2008 final.

Shapovalov quickly jumped out of the blocks, breaking misfiring Tsonga in the fourth game on the way to taking the opening set in 34 minutes.

Tsonga picked up his game and levelled one set all with a service break in the sixth game.

But the Canadian teen hit back, taking the third set with some sensational shot-making, including a running backhand winner on break point and then breaking again in the sixth game.

Tsonga stayed alive and took the match into a fifth set decider in a resolute tiebreaker.

Shapovalov began the final set strongly, breaking Tsonga in the second game and then holding off break points in the following game.

But Tsonga would not yield and broke Shapovalov as he attempted to serve out the match, breaking with a crosscourt backhand.

Shapovalov began to falter as Tsonga stepped up the pressure and broke the young Canadian again in the 11th game to hit the front 6-5. He didn&#39;t need a second chance as he served out strongly for the match.

&nbsp;

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Tsonga will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia's Viktor Troicki in the third round

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga d Denis Shapovalov, 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 Former winner Jo-Wilfried Tsonga fought back to vanquish rising Canadian star Denis Shapovalov in a five-set thriller at the Australian Open on Wednesday. The 15th seed looked dead and buried trailing 2-5 in the final set before 18-year-old Shapovalov faltered and the experienced Frenchman seized the initiative. Tsonga stormed into the third round after a 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 win in 3hr 37min on Margaret Court Arena and will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia's Viktor Troicki in the third round. It ended his three-match losing run in five-setters and reversed his loss to Shapovalov in straight sets in the second round at last year's US Open. "I'm tired, but really happy," Tsonga said. "I did a big fight today. "It's not easy against these young guns, they go for everything, but I just continued to fight." .@tsonga7 is CLUTCH ???? The Frenchman wins five straight games in the fifth to d #Shapovalov 3-6 6-3 1-6 7-6(4) 7-5. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/tv71nleAyV — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × It extended Tsonga's record at the Australian Open to 36-10 after he was runner-up to Novak Djokovic in 2008 final. Shapovalov quickly jumped out of the blocks, breaking misfiring Tsonga in the fourth game on the way to taking the opening set in 34 minutes. Tsonga picked up his game and levelled one set all with a service break in the sixth game. But the Canadian teen hit back, taking the third set with some sensational shot-making, including a running backhand winner on break point and then breaking again in the sixth game. Tsonga stayed alive and took the match into a fifth set decider in a resolute tiebreaker. Shapovalov began the final set strongly, breaking Tsonga in the second game and then holding off break points in the following game. But Tsonga would not yield and broke Shapovalov as he attempted to serve out the match, breaking with a crosscourt backhand. Shapovalov began to falter as Tsonga stepped up the pressure and broke the young Canadian again in the 11th game to hit the front 6-5. He didn't need a second chance as he served out strongly for the match.

Australian Open: Tsonga races to third round, outplays Denis Shapovalov

Caroline Wozniacki saved two match points to scrape through to the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday after being 5-1 down in the final set to unheralded Jana Fett.

The number two seed somehow prevailed after a titanic struggle 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 against the little-known Croat on a searing Rod Laver Arena in two hours and 31 minutes.

The Danish former number one teetered on the brink of becoming the latest big-name casualty in the bottom half of a draw that has become the seeds&#39; graveyard when Fett held two match points.

&quot;That was crazy, I don&#39;t how I got back the in the match. She really took her shots, she had nothing to lose,&quot; said Wozniacki

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1-5 down and facing two match points. <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> did not give up. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6BHNDFfue">pic.twitter.com/f6BHNDFfue</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953501834139717632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But when in sight of by far the biggest win of her career, the world 119&#39;s nerves got the better of her as Wozniacki reeled off 10 points in a row to spark a winning run of six unanswered games.

&quot;Experience was crucial,&quot; said Wozniacki. &quot;I think she suddenly realised at 5-1 what was happening and I just had to attack and take advantage of it.&quot;

On Monday fifth seed Venus Williams, 10th seed CoCo Vandeweghe and 13th seed and reigning US Open champion Sloane Stephens all made early exits, meaning the bottom half of the draw is now wide open.

Wozniacki will continue her quest for a first Grand Slam title next against either Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands or American Nicole Gibbs for a place in the last 16.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Caroline Wozniacki defeated Jana Fett, 3-6, 6-2, 7-5

Caroline Wozniacki saved two match points to scrape through to the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday after being 5-1 down in the final set to unheralded Jana Fett. The number two seed somehow prevailed after a titanic struggle 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 against the little-known Croat on a searing Rod Laver Arena in two hours and 31 minutes. The Danish former number one teetered on the brink of becoming the latest big-name casualty in the bottom half of a draw that has become the seeds' graveyard when Fett held two match points. "That was crazy, I don't how I got back the in the match. She really took her shots, she had nothing to lose," said Wozniacki 1-5 down and facing two match points. @CaroWozniacki did not give up. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/f6BHNDFfue — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × But when in sight of by far the biggest win of her career, the world 119's nerves got the better of her as Wozniacki reeled off 10 points in a row to spark a winning run of six unanswered games. "Experience was crucial," said Wozniacki. "I think she suddenly realised at 5-1 what was happening and I just had to attack and take advantage of it." On Monday fifth seed Venus Williams, 10th seed CoCo Vandeweghe and 13th seed and reigning US Open champion Sloane Stephens all made early exits, meaning the bottom half of the draw is now wide open. Wozniacki will continue her quest for a first Grand Slam title next against either Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands or American Nicole Gibbs for a place in the last 16.

Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki foils Jana Fett, enters second round

Elina Svitolina d Katerina Siniakova, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1

Elina Svitolina had to come from behind Wednesday against Katerina Siniakova to set up an all-Ukrainian third-round clash with teenage sensation Marta Kostyuk.

The world number four was largely in control but somehow dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 win against her 59th-ranked Czech opponent in two hours and 14 minutes.

&quot;I think she played well in the first set but I gave her one break, so I think it was kind of my mistake,&quot; said the fourth seed.

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&ldquo;I thought I was going to melt!&rdquo; ???? 
 
[4] <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElinaSvitolina</a> overcame being a set down and the heat to roll onto 3R, where she&rsquo;ll take on Marta <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kostyuk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kostyuk</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/XCzd3PXmwa">pic.twitter.com/XCzd3PXmwa</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953456913554878464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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But Svitolina cranked up the heat as temperatures rose on Rod Laver Arena, relentlessly overpowering her opponent from the back of the court to take the final two sets in dominant fashion.

&quot;I thought I was going to melt today, was struggling a bit&quot; Svitolina admitted. &quot;Today I had enough sun, I just want to have an ice bath and recover.&quot;

Svitolina came into the first Grand Slam of the year in top form after winning the Brisbane International warm-up event after picking up five WTA Tour titles last year, more than any other woman.

She now faces 15-year-old Kostyuk whose fairytale continued Wednesday as she became the youngest player to reach the third round since Martina Hingis in 1996 in beating local wildcard Olivia Rogowska in straight sets.

Luksika Kumkhum&nbsp;d Belinda Bencic, 6-1, 6-3

Venus Williams&#39; Australian Open conqueror Belinda Bencic ran out of steam Wednesday, failing to keep the momentum going against qualifier Luksika Kumkhum.

The Roger Federer-inspired Swiss stunned Williams in round one, but was no match for the Thai star who moved into a Grand Slam third round for the first time.

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???? 
 
It&#39;s tense stuff for Belinda <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bencic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bencic</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/HisenseArena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HisenseArena</a>: Luksika <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kumkhum?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kumkhum</a> has an early 3-1 lead in the first set. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/My5susATAh">pic.twitter.com/My5susATAh</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953449510096715776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Bencic, 20, was never in contention on a searing day on Hisense Arena, slumping 6-1 in the first set before putting up more fight in the second only to succumb 6-3.

Only Tuesday, fellow Swiss Federer, who won the Hopman Cup this month alongside Bencic, had heaped praise on her.

&quot;She&#39;s still so young, she has a great career ahead of herself. I try to help her where I can,&quot; he said.

But he also added: &quot;Still so much to improve.&quot;

For Kumkhum, it was a major achievement in her seventh Grand Slam main draw appearance.

&quot;This is the best win of my career,&quot; she said afterwards.&nbsp;

&quot;I kept telling my coach and family that I want to pass the second round, so I&#39;m really happy.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-the-lucky-red-dress-saved-simona-as-she-survives-first-round-29680">Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679" target="_blank">Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sharapova-enters-second-round-after-beating-tatjana-maria-29648" target="_blank">Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-roger-roars-in-round-one-29704" target="_blank">Australian Open: Roger roars in round one</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-pliskova-muguruza-konta-enter-second-round-29716" target="_blank">Australian Open: Pliskova, Muguruza, Konta enter second round</a>

&nbsp;

Venus Williams' Australian Open conqueror Belinda Bencic ran out of steam failing to keep the momentum going against qualifier Luksika Kumkhum

Elina Svitolina d Katerina Siniakova, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 Elina Svitolina had to come from behind Wednesday against Katerina Siniakova to set up an all-Ukrainian third-round clash with teenage sensation Marta Kostyuk. The world number four was largely in control but somehow dropped the first set on the way to a 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 win against her 59th-ranked Czech opponent in two hours and 14 minutes. "I think she played well in the first set but I gave her one break, so I think it was kind of my mistake," said the fourth seed. “I thought I was going to melt!” ???? [4] @ElinaSvitolina overcame being a set down and the heat to roll onto 3R, where she’ll take on Marta #Kostyuk. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/XCzd3PXmwa — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × But Svitolina cranked up the heat as temperatures rose on Rod Laver Arena, relentlessly overpowering her opponent from the back of the court to take the final two sets in dominant fashion. "I thought I was going to melt today, was struggling a bit" Svitolina admitted. "Today I had enough sun, I just want to have an ice bath and recover." Svitolina came into the first Grand Slam of the year in top form after winning the Brisbane International warm-up event after picking up five WTA Tour titles last year, more than any other woman. She now faces 15-year-old Kostyuk whose fairytale continued Wednesday as she became the youngest player to reach the third round since Martina Hingis in 1996 in beating local wildcard Olivia Rogowska in straight sets. Luksika Kumkhum d Belinda Bencic, 6-1, 6-3 Venus Williams' Australian Open conqueror Belinda Bencic ran out of steam Wednesday, failing to keep the momentum going against qualifier Luksika Kumkhum. The Roger Federer-inspired Swiss stunned Williams in round one, but was no match for the Thai star who moved into a Grand Slam third round for the first time. ???? It's tense stuff for Belinda #Bencic at @HisenseArena: Luksika #Kumkhum has an early 3-1 lead in the first set. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/My5susATAh — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × Bencic, 20, was never in contention on a searing day on Hisense Arena, slumping 6-1 in the first set before putting up more fight in the second only to succumb 6-3. Only Tuesday, fellow Swiss Federer, who won the Hopman Cup this month alongside Bencic, had heaped praise on her. "She's still so young, she has a great career ahead of herself. I try to help her where I can," he said. But he also added: "Still so much to improve." For Kumkhum, it was a major achievement in her seventh Grand Slam main draw appearance. "This is the best win of my career," she said afterwards. "I kept telling my coach and family that I want to pass the second round, so I'm really happy." Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria Australian Open: Roger roars in round one Australian Open: Pliskova, Muguruza, Konta enter second round

Australian Open: Elina Svitolina survives second round, Belinda Bencic exits

Karolina Pliskova d Veronica Cepede, 6-3, 6-4

Karolina Pliskova beat&nbsp;Veronica Cepede in the first round of Australian Open. She said before her opening match she would donate US$100 of her prize money to benefit sick children for every ace she serves at the year&#39;s first Grand Slam.

&quot;I&#39;ve decided to contribute to a good cause. During the Australian Open, I will donate through my endowment fund US$100 for each ace to help children with oncological diseases. Keep your fingers crossed for me!&quot; the sixth seed tweeted.

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I&#39;ve decided to contribute to a good cause. During the Australian Open I will donate through my endowment fund 100 USD for each ace to help children with oncological diseases. Keep your fingers crossed for me!✊ I&#39;m really looking forward to this season&#39;s first Grand Slam ???????? <a href="https://t.co/MiLF3hHGET">pic.twitter.com/MiLF3hHGET</a>
&mdash; Karolina Pliskova (@KaPliskova) <a href="https://twitter.com/KaPliskova/status/953024579982696449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Her 6-3, 6-4 first-round victory over Paraguay&#39;s Veronica Cepede Royg on Tuesday will see her writing a cheque for $700 already -- she served seven aces.

Garbine Muguruza d Jessika Ponchet, 6-4, 6-3

Garbine Muguruza wore heavy strapping on her injured right thigh as she laboured to a 6-4, 6-3 victory against wildcard Jessika Ponchet in the Australian Open first round on Tuesday.

The world number three took an hour and 24 minutes to quell the virtually unknown 21-year-old French world number 256.

Muguruza said before her match she was hoping to be &quot;pain-free&quot; to begin her Australian Open campaign, but her mobility was hampered and she looked anything but fully fit against Ponchet.

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Routine win for No.2 seed <a href="https://twitter.com/GarbiMuguruza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarbiMuguruza</a> 6-4 6-3 over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ponchet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ponchet</a>. She&#39;ll face Hsieh in round 2. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/TSMJS880ia">pic.twitter.com/TSMJS880ia</a>
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A quarter-finalist in Melbourne last year, Spain&#39;s Muguruza dropped her first service game but from there battled back to take the first set in 43 minutes.

&quot;It wasn&#39;t easy. I didn&#39;t know anything about her,&quot; said Muguruza of her opponent who was making her first main draw appearance in a WTA event, let alone a Grand Slam.

&quot;She&#39;s super talented. Serves and volleys, so I had to stay very concentrated.&quot;

The Wimbledon champion had a problematic start to the year, pulling out of the Sydney International to protect her right thigh.

Johanna Konta d Madison Brengle, 6-3, 6-1

British hope Johanna Konta showed no signs of her recent injury troubles Tuesday as she dismantled Madison Brengle to continue the dismal US start to the year&#39;s first Grand Slam.

An incredible 12 of the 15 American players on the court on day one were dumped out of the event -- including women&#39;s title fancies Venus Williams, Sloane Stephens and CoCo Vandeweghe plus Jack Sock and John Isner on the men&#39;s side.

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&quot;I was really enjoying being out there. It was a nice day. It was sunny. It was quite a full stadium. There was a lot of people. I kind of tried to absorb the atmosphere a little bit.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/JoKonta91?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoKonta91</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/BziNfmRXx3">pic.twitter.com/BziNfmRXx3</a>
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And Brengle became the unlucky 13th American to head for the exit door after impressive ninth-seeded Konta overpowered her 6-3, 6-1 on the back of eight aces and 37 winners in just 66 minutes on Hisense Arena.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-the-lucky-red-dress-saved-simona-as-she-survives-first-round-29680">Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679" target="_blank">Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sharapova-enters-second-round-after-beating-tatjana-maria-29648" target="_blank">Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-roger-roars-in-round-one-29704" target="_blank">Australian Open: Roger roars in round one</a>

&nbsp;

Karolina Pliskova donated $100 of her prize money to benefit sick children

Karolina Pliskova d Veronica Cepede, 6-3, 6-4 Karolina Pliskova beat Veronica Cepede in the first round of Australian Open. She said before her opening match she would donate US$100 of her prize money to benefit sick children for every ace she serves at the year's first Grand Slam. "I've decided to contribute to a good cause. During the Australian Open, I will donate through my endowment fund US$100 for each ace to help children with oncological diseases. Keep your fingers crossed for me!" the sixth seed tweeted. I've decided to contribute to a good cause. During the Australian Open I will donate through my endowment fund 100 USD for each ace to help children with oncological diseases. Keep your fingers crossed for me!✊ I'm really looking forward to this season's first Grand Slam ???????? pic.twitter.com/MiLF3hHGET — Karolina Pliskova (@KaPliskova) January 15, 2018 × Her 6-3, 6-4 first-round victory over Paraguay's Veronica Cepede Royg on Tuesday will see her writing a cheque for $700 already -- she served seven aces. Garbine Muguruza d Jessika Ponchet, 6-4, 6-3 Garbine Muguruza wore heavy strapping on her injured right thigh as she laboured to a 6-4, 6-3 victory against wildcard Jessika Ponchet in the Australian Open first round on Tuesday. The world number three took an hour and 24 minutes to quell the virtually unknown 21-year-old French world number 256. Muguruza said before her match she was hoping to be "pain-free" to begin her Australian Open campaign, but her mobility was hampered and she looked anything but fully fit against Ponchet. Routine win for No.2 seed @GarbiMuguruza 6-4 6-3 over #Ponchet. She'll face Hsieh in round 2. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/TSMJS880ia — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × A quarter-finalist in Melbourne last year, Spain's Muguruza dropped her first service game but from there battled back to take the first set in 43 minutes. "It wasn't easy. I didn't know anything about her," said Muguruza of her opponent who was making her first main draw appearance in a WTA event, let alone a Grand Slam. "She's super talented. Serves and volleys, so I had to stay very concentrated." The Wimbledon champion had a problematic start to the year, pulling out of the Sydney International to protect her right thigh. Johanna Konta d Madison Brengle, 6-3, 6-1 British hope Johanna Konta showed no signs of her recent injury troubles Tuesday as she dismantled Madison Brengle to continue the dismal US start to the year's first Grand Slam. An incredible 12 of the 15 American players on the court on day one were dumped out of the event -- including women's title fancies Venus Williams, Sloane Stephens and CoCo Vandeweghe plus Jack Sock and John Isner on the men's side. "I was really enjoying being out there. It was a nice day. It was sunny. It was quite a full stadium. There was a lot of people. I kind of tried to absorb the atmosphere a little bit."@JoKonta91 #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/BziNfmRXx3 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × And Brengle became the unlucky 13th American to head for the exit door after impressive ninth-seeded Konta overpowered her 6-3, 6-1 on the back of eight aces and 37 winners in just 66 minutes on Hisense Arena. Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria Australian Open: Roger roars in round one

Australian Open: Pliskova, Muguruza, Konta enter second round

Defending champion Roger&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3.

A single break in each set was enough for&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;who looked in total control from beginning to end.

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&ldquo;With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.&rdquo; 
 
&ldquo;[<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.&rdquo; 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/d5QgRuFamy">pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953207433408626688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene&#39;s serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve.

Federer&nbsp;pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before.

One member of the sell-out crowd yelled &quot;Give him a chance Rog&quot; late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene&#39;s serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

Also read: Australian Open: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679">Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

Also read:&nbsp;Australian Open: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-the-lucky-red-dress-saved-simona-as-she-survives-first-round-29680" target="_blank">The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round</a>

&nbsp;

Defending champion Federer beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 in straight sets

Defending champion Roger Federer got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3. A single break in each set was enough for Federer who looked in total control from beginning to end. “With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.” “[#AusOpen 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.” - @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene's serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve. Federer pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before. One member of the sell-out crowd yelled "Give him a chance Rog" late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene's serve when his opponent netted a backhand. Also read: Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round Also read: Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round

Australian Open: Roger roars in round one

Canada&#39;s Milos Raonic was knocked out of the Australian Open by Lukas Lacko on Tuesday in his earliest exit at Grand Slam for seven years.

The 86th-ranked Slovakian beat the 22nd seeded Raonic 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) in 3hr 22min on Show Court three.

It was Raonic&#39;s earliest exit at a Slam since losing in the first round at Roland Garros in 2011.

Raonic, a 2016 Wimbledon finalist, is fighting his way back from a wrist injury last season and despite serving 36 aces, he made 47 unforced errors and had his serve broken three times.

Lacko will play Argentina&#39;s Nicolas Kicker in the second round.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sharapova-enters-second-round-after-beating-tatjana-maria-29648" target="_blank">Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-the-lucky-red-dress-saved-simona-as-she-survives-first-round-29680">Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679" target="_blank">Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

&nbsp;

The 86th-ranked Slovakian beat the 22nd seeded Raonic 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4)

Canada's Milos Raonic was knocked out of the Australian Open by Lukas Lacko on Tuesday in his earliest exit at Grand Slam for seven years. The 86th-ranked Slovakian beat the 22nd seeded Raonic 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) in 3hr 22min on Show Court three. It was Raonic's earliest exit at a Slam since losing in the first round at Roland Garros in 2011. Raonic, a 2016 Wimbledon finalist, is fighting his way back from a wrist injury last season and despite serving 36 aces, he made 47 unforced errors and had his serve broken three times. Lacko will play Argentina's Nicolas Kicker in the second round. Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round

Australian Open: Milos Raonic crashes, drives out of Slam

Defending champion Roger&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3.

A single break in each set was enough for&nbsp;Federer&nbsp;who looked in total control from beginning to end.

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&ldquo;With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.&rdquo; 
 
&ldquo;[<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.&rdquo; 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> <a href="https://t.co/d5QgRuFamy">pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953207433408626688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene&#39;s serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve.

Federer&nbsp;pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before.

One member of the sell-out crowd yelled &quot;Give him a chance Rog&quot; late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene&#39;s serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

&nbsp;

Defending champion Roger Federer beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 in straight sets

Defending champion Roger Federer got quickly into his majestic stride with a straight-sets win over Slovenian Aljaz Bedene in his opening match at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The 36-year-old Swiss turned the evening clash on Rod Laver Arena into an exhibition as he breezed past Bedene with consummate ease 6-3 6-4 6-3. A single break in each set was enough for Federer who looked in total control from beginning to end. “With Rafa the final was epic. It seems like the stars really aligned for us last year. To play in front of a quality crowd like you guys, it was very special.” “[#AusOpen 2017] was my favourite tournament of the season by far, hands down.” - @rogerfederer pic.twitter.com/d5QgRuFamy — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × The world number two, bidding for a 20th grand slam title after claiming his 18th here last year and 19th at Wimbledon, broke Bedene's serve in the fourth game of the first set in which he conceded only three points on his serve. Federer pounced immediately at the start of the second to gain another break and cantered through the rest of the match against a player who he had never played before. One member of the sell-out crowd yelled "Give him a chance Rog" late on but the Swiss was not listening and finished the match on Bedene's serve when his opponent netted a backhand.

Australian Open: Roger roars in round one, beats Slovenian Aljaz Bedene

A dramatic and intense game ended in the favour of world number one Simona Halep. She defeated Destanee Aiava after coming back&nbsp;from 5-2 and a set point down against Australian teenager to win the first-round match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

Both the Romanian and her 17-year-old wildcard opponent needed on-court medical attention before top seed Halep ran out a battling 7-6 (7/5), 6-1 winner in an hour and 51 minutes.&nbsp;

The top seed had fallen at the first hurdle in the past two years at Melbourne Park and another shock was beckoning when the big-hitting Australian took a 5-2 lead in the first set buoyed by rowdy home supporters.

&quot;She was a very tough opponent,&quot; said a relieved Halep after the match.

&quot;She&#39;s very talented and powerful. She reminds me a little bit of Serena Williams.&quot;

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&quot;It was a pleasure to be back here on centre court.&quot; 
 
The world No. 1️⃣ is through to the second round! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/AZFrRMmUmk">pic.twitter.com/AZFrRMmUmk</a>
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Halep showed little of the form which helped her to the Shenzhen title two weeks ago but used her all experience to extend the rallies and force the ailing Australian to dig deep.

Simona Halep will face Canada&#39;s Eugenie Bouchard, a former semi-finalist in Melbourne and Roland Garros, and a finalist at Wimbledon in 2014.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-wawrinka-zverev-djokovic-progress-to-second-round-29679">Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round</a>

Simona Halep beat Destanee Aiava, 7-6 (7/5), 6-1. She will face Canada's Eugenie Bouchard in the second round

A dramatic and intense game ended in the favour of world number one Simona Halep. She defeated Destanee Aiava after coming back from 5-2 and a set point down against Australian teenager to win the first-round match at the Australian Open on Tuesday. Both the Romanian and her 17-year-old wildcard opponent needed on-court medical attention before top seed Halep ran out a battling 7-6 (7/5), 6-1 winner in an hour and 51 minutes. The top seed had fallen at the first hurdle in the past two years at Melbourne Park and another shock was beckoning when the big-hitting Australian took a 5-2 lead in the first set buoyed by rowdy home supporters. "She was a very tough opponent," said a relieved Halep after the match. "She's very talented and powerful. She reminds me a little bit of Serena Williams." "It was a pleasure to be back here on centre court." The world No. 1️⃣ is through to the second round! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/AZFrRMmUmk — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × Halep showed little of the form which helped her to the Shenzhen title two weeks ago but used her all experience to extend the rallies and force the ailing Australian to dig deep. Simona Halep will face Canada's Eugenie Bouchard, a former semi-finalist in Melbourne and Roland Garros, and a finalist at Wimbledon in 2014. Also read: Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round

Australian Open: The lucky red dress saved Simona as she survives first round

Stan Wawrinka d&nbsp;Ricardas Berankis,&nbsp;6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2)

Former champion Stan Wawrinka was taken to four sets before winning his first match since knee surgery in July at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena.

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The man. ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/stanwawrinka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StanWawrinka</a> <a href="https://t.co/RDCXrLzNTi">pic.twitter.com/RDCXrLzNTi</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953146072217485313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was a confidence booster for the 2014 Melbourne Park champion who had a troubled lead-in to the year&#39;s opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi.

The Swiss star, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win in 2014, has slipped to nine in the world rankings, having not played since his first-round Wimbledon loss to Russian Daniil Medvedev six months ago.

&quot;It was a tough battle and I&#39;m really happy to win my first match here after six months out,&quot; Wawrinka said.

Alexander Zverev d&nbsp;Thomas Fabbiano,&nbsp;6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5

Young German star Alexander Zverev needed a hard-fought three sets to get through his opening encounter at the Australian Open on Tuesday and spoke of his search for greater consistency.

The world No.4 spent 2hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena before claiming a 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 win over 73rd-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano.

Zverev, at the vanguard of the &quot;NextGen&quot; brigade, will face fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the second round.

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&quot;My dog doesn&#39;t even realise who I am, so, you know, nothing changes at home.&quot; 
 
Sascha Zverev may be Top 5 but that doesn&#39;t matter to much his pup...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/SNRVjTwNeq">pic.twitter.com/SNRVjTwNeq</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953149936404590592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While the 20-year-old won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam.

&quot;I think last year I was pretty consistent, apart from the end of the year,&quot; Zverev said.

&quot;I think my game is getting more consistent with age as well. I think that&#39;s also something that is a factor of maturity.

&quot;So I&#39;m just trying to get better every single day, and that&#39;s what I&#39;m here for,&quot; he added.

Novak Djokovic d&nbsp;Donald Young,&nbsp;6-1, 6-2, 6-4

Six-times champion Novak Djokovic&nbsp;looked the part&nbsp;as&nbsp;he powered to a convincing&nbsp;first-round&nbsp;victory at the Australian Open on Tuesday on his return from an elbow injury.

The 12-times Grand Slam champion, seeded an unfamiliar 14, was too strong for American Donald Young, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-4&nbsp;in 1hr 51min on Margaret Court Arena.

It was an impressive performance, with the Serb breaking Young&#39;s left-handed serve six times, hitting 33 winners and conceding only 27 unforced errors.

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The Nole of old. 
 
Full match report of <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a>&#39;s triumphant return to Grand Slam action ➡️<a href="https://t.co/NM22di4I6x">https://t.co/NM22di4I6x</a> <a href="https://t.co/NryKXCEKqR">pic.twitter.com/NryKXCEKqR</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953166187151552513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;There is no better place to start than here in Australia, I love coming here, I love playing here,&quot; Djokovic told the crowd.

&quot;It&#39;s been a long period without any official matches but I spent as much quality time as I could with my family.

&quot;I wanted to start with the right intensity, which I have, I played perfect tennis in the first couple of sets and Donald came back in the third set.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-sharapova-enters-second-round-after-beating-tatjana-maria-29648" target="_blank">Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena

Stan Wawrinka d Ricardas Berankis, 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) Former champion Stan Wawrinka was taken to four sets before winning his first match since knee surgery in July at the Australian Open on Tuesday. The three-time Grand Slam winner downed Ricardas Berankis 6-3, 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7/2) on Hisense Arena. The man. ???? #AusOpen @StanWawrinka pic.twitter.com/RDCXrLzNTi — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × It was a confidence booster for the 2014 Melbourne Park champion who had a troubled lead-in to the year's opening Grand Slam, pulling out of an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi. The Swiss star, who defeated Rafael Nadal to win in 2014, has slipped to nine in the world rankings, having not played since his first-round Wimbledon loss to Russian Daniil Medvedev six months ago. "It was a tough battle and I'm really happy to win my first match here after six months out," Wawrinka said. Alexander Zverev d Thomas Fabbiano, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 Young German star Alexander Zverev needed a hard-fought three sets to get through his opening encounter at the Australian Open on Tuesday and spoke of his search for greater consistency. The world No.4 spent 2hr 22min on Rod Laver Arena before claiming a 6-1, 7-6 (7/5), 7-5 win over 73rd-ranked Italian Thomas Fabbiano. Zverev, at the vanguard of the "NextGen" brigade, will face fellow German Peter Gojowczyk in the second round. "My dog doesn't even realise who I am, so, you know, nothing changes at home." Sascha Zverev may be Top 5 but that doesn't matter to much his pup...#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/SNRVjTwNeq — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × While the 20-year-old won five titles and was one of just four players to beat Roger Federer last year, he has yet to get beyond the fourth round at a Grand Slam. "I think last year I was pretty consistent, apart from the end of the year," Zverev said. "I think my game is getting more consistent with age as well. I think that's also something that is a factor of maturity. "So I'm just trying to get better every single day, and that's what I'm here for," he added. Novak Djokovic d Donald Young, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 Six-times champion Novak Djokovic looked the part as he powered to a convincing first-round victory at the Australian Open on Tuesday on his return from an elbow injury. The 12-times Grand Slam champion, seeded an unfamiliar 14, was too strong for American Donald Young, winning 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in 1hr 51min on Margaret Court Arena. It was an impressive performance, with the Serb breaking Young's left-handed serve six times, hitting 33 winners and conceding only 27 unforced errors. The Nole of old. Full match report of @DjokerNole's triumphant return to Grand Slam action ➡️https://t.co/NM22di4I6x pic.twitter.com/NryKXCEKqR — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × "There is no better place to start than here in Australia, I love coming here, I love playing here," Djokovic told the crowd. "It's been a long period without any official matches but I spent as much quality time as I could with my family. "I wanted to start with the right intensity, which I have, I played perfect tennis in the first couple of sets and Donald came back in the third set." Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams

Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round

Maria Sharapova defeated&nbsp;Germany&#39;s Tatjana Maria 6-1, 6-4 in an hour and 18 minutes on Tuesday.

She will either face&nbsp;14th seed Anastasija Sevastova of Latvia or American Varvara Lepchenko.

&quot;Look, I&#39;ve got shivers,&quot; said Sharapova pointing to her arm when asked on the court how much being back in Melbourne meant to her.

&quot;I cherish these moments. I love it here,&quot; she added.

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&quot;It was really meaningful to be out here today.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/MariaSharapova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MariaSharapova</a> happy to be back in Melbourne.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/oQkEUUr2cl">pic.twitter.com/oQkEUUr2cl</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953106654400102405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;It&#39;s been a couple of years and I wanted it to be really meaningful to me. But we know it&#39;s only going to get tougher.&quot;

The Russian star&nbsp;has won 36 singles titles and&nbsp;marked her presence in the first round of Australian Open after&nbsp;returning from a 15-month doping ban.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-rafa-through-to-second-round-29592" target="_blank">Australian Open: Rafa through to second round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-belinda-bencic-on-first-round-win-over-venus-williams-29570" target="_blank">Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams</a>

&nbsp;

Sharapova defeated Tatjana Maria 6-1, 6-4 of Germany and likely to meet Anastasija Sevastova of Latvia or American Varvara Lepchenko in the second round

Maria Sharapova defeated Germany's Tatjana Maria 6-1, 6-4 in an hour and 18 minutes on Tuesday. She will either face 14th seed Anastasija Sevastova of Latvia or American Varvara Lepchenko. "Look, I've got shivers," said Sharapova pointing to her arm when asked on the court how much being back in Melbourne meant to her. "I cherish these moments. I love it here," she added. "It was really meaningful to be out here today."@MariaSharapova happy to be back in Melbourne.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/oQkEUUr2cl — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2018 × "It's been a couple of years and I wanted it to be really meaningful to me. But we know it's only going to get tougher." The Russian star has won 36 singles titles and marked her presence in the first round of Australian Open after returning from a 15-month doping ban. Australian Open: Rafa through to second round Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams

Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria

Rafael Nadal thrashed Victor Estrella Burgos, 6-1, 6-1, 6-1 to qualify for the second round of the Australian Open on Monday on Rod Laver Arena.

He will play Leonardo Mayer of Argentina in the next round.

&quot;I&#39;m very happy to be back, it&#39;s a very important beginning for me. It&#39;s good news for me,&quot; said Rafa.

&quot;I want to enjoy every moment I&#39;m here on this court,&quot; he added.

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Long may we see <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> on Rod Laver Arena! 
 
The World No.1 speaks after progressing through to the second round. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/F9YaRO1XZV">pic.twitter.com/F9YaRO1XZV</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/952843932198617088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In 94 minutes long game, the Spaniard left no chance to outplay Victor Estrella Burgos, with&nbsp;eight service breaks and 28&nbsp;winners.

Rafa wore no strapping on his knee and appeared in full power and there were no signs of injury to be seen.

He had&nbsp;suffered a knee injury in the past and also missed the scheduled warm-up matches in Brisbane. He even expressed doubts about his fitness just ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.

Nadal needs to reach the quarter-finals to be certain of retaining his world number one ranking. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal thrashed Victor Estrella Burgos, 6-1, 6-1, 6-1, to play Argentina's Leonardo Mayer in the next round

Rafael Nadal thrashed Victor Estrella Burgos, 6-1, 6-1, 6-1 to qualify for the second round of the Australian Open on Monday on Rod Laver Arena. He will play Leonardo Mayer of Argentina in the next round. "I'm very happy to be back, it's a very important beginning for me. It's good news for me," said Rafa. "I want to enjoy every moment I'm here on this court," he added. Long may we see @RafaelNadal on Rod Laver Arena! The World No.1 speaks after progressing through to the second round. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/F9YaRO1XZV — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2018 × In 94 minutes long game, the Spaniard left no chance to outplay Victor Estrella Burgos, with eight service breaks and 28 winners. Rafa wore no strapping on his knee and appeared in full power and there were no signs of injury to be seen. He had suffered a knee injury in the past and also missed the scheduled warm-up matches in Brisbane. He even expressed doubts about his fitness just ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year. Nadal needs to reach the quarter-finals to be certain of retaining his world number one ranking.

Australian Open: Rafa through to second round

Jelena Ostapenko said that ever since winning the French Open she has become a marked woman with everyone trying to beat her.

That included corset-wearing Italian veteran Francesca Schiavone, who failed in her task in the Australian Open first round on Monday, losing 6-1, 6-4.

World number seven Ostapenko raced through the first set on Rod Laver Arena against the 2010 Roland Garros winner.

But she found herself 4-1 down in the second to the world number 93 who was bizarrely wearing a weightlifter-style back brace over her tennis top.

The big-hitting Latvian soon found her range again and hit back with two breaks of the Schiavone serve, the second achieved with a trademark forehand winner.

Ostapenko then served out with no further alarms to take the match in one hour and 14 minutes.

&quot;I mean, of course, it&#39;s tough, especially after winning at the age of 20. Everybody wants to beat you,&quot; she said of entering a major tournament as a former Grand Slam champion.

&quot;You have to prepare very well for every match. But on the other side, I have nothing to lose. I&#39;ve already won the Grand Slam. I just enjoy every match and show my best.&quot;

Following her French Open success, Ostapenko finished the year in the top 10 for the first time in her career and has taken the leap to being a high-profile player in her stride.

&quot;I think after French I did well at Wimbledon. That gave me even more confidence,&quot; she said.&nbsp;

&quot;I&#39;ve had a good pre-season, and now I&#39;m ready. I&#39;m looking forward to my second match here.&quot;

That will be against China&#39;s Duan Yingying who overcame Colombia&#39;s Mariana Duque-Marino in straight sets.

&nbsp;

Jelena Ostapenko said that ever since winning the French Open she has become a marked woman with everyone trying to beat her. That included corset-wearing Italian veteran Francesca Schiavone, who failed in her task in the Australian Open first round on Monday, losing 6-1, 6-4. World number seven Ostapenko raced through the first set on Rod Laver Arena against the 2010 Roland Garros winner. But she found herself 4-1 down in the second to the world number 93 who was bizarrely wearing a weightlifter-style back brace over her tennis top. The big-hitting Latvian soon found her range again and hit back with two breaks of the Schiavone serve, the second achieved with a trademark forehand winner. Ostapenko then served out with no further alarms to take the match in one hour and 14 minutes. "I mean, of course, it's tough, especially after winning at the age of 20. Everybody wants to beat you," she said of entering a major tournament as a former Grand Slam champion. "You have to prepare very well for every match. But on the other side, I have nothing to lose. I've already won the Grand Slam. I just enjoy every match and show my best." Following her French Open success, Ostapenko finished the year in the top 10 for the first time in her career and has taken the leap to being a high-profile player in her stride. "I think after French I did well at Wimbledon. That gave me even more confidence," she said. "I've had a good pre-season, and now I'm ready. I'm looking forward to my second match here." That will be against China's Duan Yingying who overcame Colombia's Mariana Duque-Marino in straight sets.

Australian Open: Jelena Ostapenko beats Francesca Schiavone in first round

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-roger-federer-and-belinda-bencic-claim-hopman-cup-28735">20-year-old Swiss Belinda Bencic</a> ranked No-78 beat Venus Williams in straight sets in the first round of the Australian Open today.

Venus, 37, who was the finalist last year was beaten by Bencic 6-3, 7-5 in just under two hours at the Rod Laver Arena.

&nbsp;Bencic will meet the winner of Johanna Larsson and Luksika Kumkhum in the next round.

In another match, last year&#39;s semi-finalist CoCo Vandeweghe was beaten by Hungary&#39;s Timea Babos 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 as Americans continued to bow out of the Australian Open on the first day.

Vandeweghe is the third American to fall on the first day with Venus Williams and US Open Champion Sloane Stephens falling earlier.

&nbsp;Sloane Stephens was beaten by China&#39;s &nbsp;Zhang Shuai 2-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-2.

&quot;I would like to have played someone easier,&quot; said Bencic after beating Venus.

&quot;When I was a little girl watching on TV, I would never imagine I would play them (the Williams),&quot;&nbsp;Bencic said.

Bencic beat Venus 6-3, 7-5 in just under two hours at the Rod Laver Arena

20-year-old Swiss Belinda Bencic ranked No-78 beat Venus Williams in straight sets in the first round of the Australian Open today. Venus, 37, who was the finalist last year was beaten by Bencic 6-3, 7-5 in just under two hours at the Rod Laver Arena. Bencic will meet the winner of Johanna Larsson and Luksika Kumkhum in the next round. In another match, last year's semi-finalist CoCo Vandeweghe was beaten by Hungary's Timea Babos 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 as Americans continued to bow out of the Australian Open on the first day. Vandeweghe is the third American to fall on the first day with Venus Williams and US Open Champion Sloane Stephens falling earlier. Sloane Stephens was beaten by China's Zhang Shuai 2-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-2. "I would like to have played someone easier," said Bencic after beating Venus. "When I was a little girl watching on TV, I would never imagine I would play them (the Williams)," Bencic said.

Australian Open: 20-year-old Swiss Belinda Bencic beats Venus Williams in first round

Roger Federer will open his Australian Open title defence against Slovenian Aljaz Bedene next week, while top seed Rafa Nadal, the losing finalist last year, was paired with Dominican Victor Estrella Burgos at the draw on Thursday.

Women&#39;s top seed Simona Halep of Romania faces Australian wildcard Destanee Aiava in the first round, with second seed Caroline Wozniacki starting out against Halep&#39;s compatriot Mihaela Buzarnescu.

Serena Williams will not defend the women&#39;s title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany&#39;s Tatjana Maria.

Williams&#39;s sister Venus, who lost to her sibling in the final last year, is seeded fourth and the 37-year-old was handed a tricky first encounter against Swiss former world number seven Belinda Bencic, who is 17 years her junior.

Men&#39;s third seed Grigor Dimitrov will face a qualifier, with Alexander Zverev, ranked fourth, playing Italian Thomas Fabbiano but with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, returning after surgery, in his section of the draw.

Young gun Zverev had little luck in his first Australian Open draw as a top five seed with either Wawrinka, who plays Ricardas Berankis, or Novak Djokovic potentially standing in his path in the quarter-finals.

Six-times Melbourne Park champion Djokovic, seeded 14th after missing the back end of last season with an elbow injury, will take on American lefthander Donald Young in his first match with mercurial Frenchman Gael Monfils looming in round two.

Federer also has Milos Raonic, Juan Martin del Potro, David Goffin and Tomas Berdych in his quarter of the draw, while Nadal would appear to have the easier section, although former US Open champion Marin Cilic looms as a last-eight opponent.

If the draw goes to seeding, Dimitrov would face American Jack Sock in the last eight, with ailing world number five Dominic Thiem, who withdrew from Kooyong because of illness on Thursday, taking on Zverev.

Britain&#39;s Andy Murray and Japan`s Kei Nishikori have already withdrawn from the championships and women&#39;s world number three Garbine Muguruza has twice pulled out of tournaments over the last two weeks due to leg cramps and a thigh problem.

The Wimbledon champion is scheduled take on France&#39;s Jessika Ponchet in the first round, while French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko was paired with veteran Francesca Schiavone and US Open champion Sloane Stephens will take on China&#39;s Zhang Shuai.

Australia&#39;s sole men&#39;s seed, Nick Kyrgios, takes on Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva and local women`s 18th seed Ashleigh Barty takes on Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka.

Serena Williams will not defend the women's title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany's Tatjana Maria.

Roger Federer will open his Australian Open title defence against Slovenian Aljaz Bedene next week, while top seed Rafa Nadal, the losing finalist last year, was paired with Dominican Victor Estrella Burgos at the draw on Thursday. Women's top seed Simona Halep of Romania faces Australian wildcard Destanee Aiava in the first round, with second seed Caroline Wozniacki starting out against Halep's compatriot Mihaela Buzarnescu. Serena Williams will not defend the women's title having had her first child last year but 2008 champion Maria Sharapova, who failed a drugs test at the tournament in 2016, is back unseeded after a ban and will face Germany's Tatjana Maria. Williams's sister Venus, who lost to her sibling in the final last year, is seeded fourth and the 37-year-old was handed a tricky first encounter against Swiss former world number seven Belinda Bencic, who is 17 years her junior. Men's third seed Grigor Dimitrov will face a qualifier, with Alexander Zverev, ranked fourth, playing Italian Thomas Fabbiano but with 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka, returning after surgery, in his section of the draw. Young gun Zverev had little luck in his first Australian Open draw as a top five seed with either Wawrinka, who plays Ricardas Berankis, or Novak Djokovic potentially standing in his path in the quarter-finals. Six-times Melbourne Park champion Djokovic, seeded 14th after missing the back end of last season with an elbow injury, will take on American lefthander Donald Young in his first match with mercurial Frenchman Gael Monfils looming in round two. Federer also has Milos Raonic, Juan Martin del Potro, David Goffin and Tomas Berdych in his quarter of the draw, while Nadal would appear to have the easier section, although former US Open champion Marin Cilic looms as a last-eight opponent. If the draw goes to seeding, Dimitrov would face American Jack Sock in the last eight, with ailing world number five Dominic Thiem, who withdrew from Kooyong because of illness on Thursday, taking on Zverev. Britain's Andy Murray and Japan`s Kei Nishikori have already withdrawn from the championships and women's world number three Garbine Muguruza has twice pulled out of tournaments over the last two weeks due to leg cramps and a thigh problem. The Wimbledon champion is scheduled take on France's Jessika Ponchet in the first round, while French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko was paired with veteran Francesca Schiavone and US Open champion Sloane Stephens will take on China's Zhang Shuai. Australia's sole men's seed, Nick Kyrgios, takes on Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva and local women`s 18th seed Ashleigh Barty takes on Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka.

Roger Federer to open Australian Open against Bedene

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