Rybakina vs Sabalenka Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 womens Final match - In the Australian Open final on Saturday in Melbourne, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina are all set to square off as two of the most powerful players in women's tennis.

Rybakina vs Sabalenka Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 womens Final match - In the Australian Open final on Saturday in Melbourne, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina are all set to square off as two of the most powerful players in women's tennis. The fifth-ranked Sabalenka from Belarus is in fantastic shape and poised to win her first Grand Slam title. The 24-year-old hasn't lost a set in 2023 and enters the championship match at Rod Laver Arena on a 10-match winning streak in Australia after winning the Adelaide International. Rybakina, the Wimbledon winner, has lost to her three times in a row. Rybakina, 23, has calmly progressed through the draw, unperturbed by the transfer of her opening encounter to Court 13's remote location at Melbourne Park. On her path to the grand finale match, the Russia-born Kazakh player has defeated three Grand Slam winners, including Iga Swiatek, the current world number one. Australian Open women’s single final: Rybakina v Sabalenka match details Australian Open women’s single grand finale match will be played between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina on Saturday, January 28. The match will be played at 7:30 PM local time and 2:00 PM IST. Where to watch Rybakina v Sabalenka match, live streaming and broadcast details The Australian Open 2023 will be broadcasted on ESPN, ESPN2, and the ESPN family of networks. Check out the ESPN app and ESPN.com to watch the ESPN family of networks. You can use your smartphone, tablet, laptop, connected TV, or video game console to access the app or website. Sony Pictures Networks India will continue to broadcast the Australian Open from 2023. With this, the broadcaster will have TV and digital rights for the global sporting event across the Indian subcontinent including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The grand slam will be available on SPN’s sports channels as well as live-streamed on its OTT platform SonyLIV. Where to watch Australian Open women’s single final: Rybakina v Sabalenka live streaming in India? (Live Streaming) Australian Open 2023 Women's final Rybakina v Sabalenka Live Streaming - Sony Pictures Networks India will continue to broadcast the Australian Open from 2023 . With this, the broadcaster will have TV and digital rights for the global sporting event across the Indian subcontinent including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The grand slam will be available on SPN’s sports channels as well as live-streamed on its OTT platform SonyLIV. People outside India can watch and stream live action every day at Melbourne Park with Eurosport, the Eurosport App and discovery+. The Australian Open 2023 will be broadcasted on ESPN, ESPN2, and the ESPN family of networks. Check out the ESPN app and ESPN.com to watch the ESPN family of networks. You can use your smartphone, tablet, laptop, connected TV, or video game console to access the app or website. When will Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will be played? (Date) Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will be on saturday, January 28. Where will Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will be played? (Venue) Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will be played at Rod Laver Arena, Australia. What time will Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will start? (Time) Rybakina v Sabalenka Australian Open women’s single Final match will start at 2:00 PM IST. Australian Open 2023 Prize Money: At the 2023 Australian Open, players will compete for a record prize pool of A$76.5 million (a 3.4 per cent increase from 2022), with men's and women's champions pocketing AU$2.975 million, and a first-round loss netting AU$106,250. SINGLES (all A$) Winner- $2,975,000 Runner-up $1,625,000 Semifinalists- $925,000 Quarterfinalists- $555,250 Round of 16- $338,250 Round of 32- $227,925 Round of 64- $158,850 First Round- $106,250

Rybakina vs Sabalenka Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 womens Final match preview, live, time, date, venue

Djokovic vs T. Paul Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 Semifinal-&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch Australian Open 2023 Semifinal&nbsp;Novak Djokovic's vs T. Paul Live&nbsp;. Catch all the live-streaming details of this year's first Grand Slam event.&nbsp;

<h2>Full Schedule of the Australian Open 2023&nbsp;</h2>

1st Semifinal - S. Tsitsipas beat K. Khachanov 
2nd Semifinal -&nbsp;Djokovic vs T. Paul - 2:00 PM

Final -&nbsp;S. Tsitsipas vs TBC - 2:00 PM

&nbsp;

<h2>Where to watch all the matches of the Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Live - Djokovic vs T. Paul ?</h2>

Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Live Streaming&nbsp;- Sony Pictures Networks India will continue to broadcast the Australian Open from 2023 . With this, the broadcaster will have TV and digital rights for the global sporting event across the Indian subcontinent including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The grand slam will be available on SPN’s sports channels as well as live-streamed on its OTT platform SonyLIV.

People outside India can watch and stream live action every day at Melbourne Park with Eurosport, the Eurosport App and discovery+.

The Australian Open 2023 will be broadcasted on&nbsp;ESPN, ESPN2, and the ESPN&nbsp;family of networks. Check out the ESPN app and ESPN.com to watch the ESPN family of networks. You can use your smartphone, tablet, laptop, connected TV, or video game console to access the app or website.

<h2>Australian Open 2023 Prize Money:</h2>

At the 2023 Australian Open, players will compete for a record prize pool of A$76.5 million (a 3.4 per cent increase from 2022), with men's and women's champions pocketing AU$2.975 million, and a first-round loss netting AU$106,250.

SINGLES (all A$)

Winner- $2,975,000 
Runner-up $1,625,000 
Semifinalists- $925,000 
Quarterfinalists- $555,250 
Round of 16- $338,250 
Round of 32- $227,925 
Round of 64- $158,850 
First Round- $106,250

&nbsp;

<h2>When is Australian Open 2023 Semifinal match&nbsp;Djokovic vs T. Paul?</h2>

Australian Open 2023 Semifinal match&nbsp;Djokovic vs T. Paul begins on Friday, 27&nbsp;January. The tournament will be held at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia.

<h2>Who is Djokovic playing against at the Australian Open 2023?</h2>

Djokovic will square off against T. Paul in the semifinal of the Australian Open on Friday.

<h2>Novak Djokovic vs Grigor Dimitrov match schedule at the Australian Open 2023</h2>

Novak Djokovic is scheduled to play the first match of the night session at the Rod Laver Arena, with the match not starting before 7:00 pm local time.

Date:&nbsp;27 January&nbsp;2023 (Aus/UK/India), 26 January&nbsp;2023 (US/Canada).

Match Timing:&nbsp;2:00 PM IST

&nbsp;

Djokovic vs T. Paul Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 Semifinal- Watch Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Novak Djokovic's vs T. Paul Live . Catch all the live-streaming details of this year's first Grand Slam event.

Djokovic vs T. Paul Live Streaming: Australian Open 2023 Semifinal- Watch Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Novak Djokovic's vs T. Paul Live . Catch all the live-streaming details of this year's first Grand Slam event. Full Schedule of the Australian Open 2023 1st Semifinal - S. Tsitsipas beat K. Khachanov 2nd Semifinal - Djokovic vs T. Paul - 2:00 PM Final - S. Tsitsipas vs TBC - 2:00 PM Where to watch all the matches of the Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Live - Djokovic vs T. Paul ? Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Live Streaming - Sony Pictures Networks India will continue to broadcast the Australian Open from 2023 . With this, the broadcaster will have TV and digital rights for the global sporting event across the Indian subcontinent including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The grand slam will be available on SPN’s sports channels as well as live-streamed on its OTT platform SonyLIV. People outside India can watch and stream live action every day at Melbourne Park with Eurosport, the Eurosport App and discovery+. The Australian Open 2023 will be broadcasted on ESPN, ESPN2, and the ESPN family of networks. Check out the ESPN app and ESPN.com to watch the ESPN family of networks. You can use your smartphone, tablet, laptop, connected TV, or video game console to access the app or website. Australian Open 2023 Prize Money: At the 2023 Australian Open, players will compete for a record prize pool of A$76.5 million (a 3.4 per cent increase from 2022), with men's and women's champions pocketing AU$2.975 million, and a first-round loss netting AU$106,250. SINGLES (all A$) Winner- $2,975,000 Runner-up $1,625,000 Semifinalists- $925,000 Quarterfinalists- $555,250 Round of 16- $338,250 Round of 32- $227,925 Round of 64- $158,850 First Round- $106,250 When is Australian Open 2023 Semifinal match Djokovic vs T. Paul? Australian Open 2023 Semifinal match Djokovic vs T. Paul begins on Friday, 27 January. The tournament will be held at Melbourne Park in Melbourne, Australia. Who is Djokovic playing against at the Australian Open 2023? Djokovic will square off against T. Paul in the semifinal of the Australian Open on Friday. Novak Djokovic vs Grigor Dimitrov match schedule at the Australian Open 2023 Novak Djokovic is scheduled to play the first match of the night session at the Rod Laver Arena, with the match not starting before 7:00 pm local time. Date: 27 January 2023 (Aus/UK/India), 26 January 2023 (US/Canada). Match Timing: 2:00 PM IST

Djokovic vs T. Paul Live Streaming: When, where, how to watch Australian Open 2023 Semifinal Live Streaming

Novak Djokovic was at his flawless best yet again as he served a masterclass to defeat fifth seed Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-2 6-4 and advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic was at his flawless best yet again as he served a masterclass to defeat fifth seed Andrey Rublev 6-1 6-2 6-4 and advance to the semi-finals of the Australian Open. Djokovic, with his heavily strapped thigh, took to the court as a man possessed. From the first set, the Serbian played with authority and targeted Rublev's rather weak backhand. He broke early at 3-1 and did not look back from thereon. The Russian showed flashes of brilliance that dug him out of a hole in the previous round against Danish teenager Holger Rune but the class of Djokovic simply proved too overpowering for him. WATCH | Djokovic can't forget Australian deportation but wants to move on In the second set, Djokovic found himself in a minor spot of bother as he was forced to save a breakpoint. However, the nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena used his full experience to not only save the point but take the set as well. Afterwards, he let out a huge roar, indicating his strong desire to go the distance yet again. Devoid of ideas and energy, Rublev somehow managed to stay in the game in the third set for the major part, before falling apart. "Andrey is a great opponent, great player. I have tons of respect for him, one of the biggest forehands, quickest players on the tour," said Djokovic after the match. "I knew what the game plan was and it was important that I found my best tennis." Read more: Australian Open: Djokovic completes De Minaur demolition to storm into the quarter-final With the quarter-final win, Djokovic is 26 games unbeaten in the tournament, with the streak stretching back to 2018. He missed the last tournament after being deported, otherwise, the record could have been far more intimidating. The Serb has set up a last-four clash with American Tommy Paul. It will be his 10th semifinal appearance at Melbourne Park, a record only bettered by Roger Federer (15) and Jack Crawford (11). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic crushes Andrey Rublev, marches to the semi-finals

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is hoping for an all-Belarusian final at the Australian Open after she qualified for the last four on Wednesday, beating Donna Vekic.

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is hoping for an all-Belarusian final at the Australian Open after she qualified for the last four on Wednesday, beating Donna Vekic. Sabalenka's statement comes at a time when Russian and Belarusian athletes have been forced to compete under neutral flags due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "I really want it to happen. I know that Vika [Victoria Azarenka] will do everything she can to make it happens. I will do everything I can to make it happens. That's, yeah, going to be history. That's going to be just like unbelievable and tough to realise that this is actually happens." While Sabalenka will be squaring off against Polish Magda Linette in the second semifinal, the first knockout will see Elena Rybakina take on Victoria Azarenka. While Azarenka is of Belarusian nationality, last year's Wimbledon champion Rybakina was born in Russia and switched allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018. However, despite being a Kazakh, Rybakina was not allowed to collect 2000 points for her ATP rankings after winning Wimbledon last year. When asked if the treatment meted out to the athletes such as herself in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war had affected her, Sabalenka replied in affirmative. "Well, I would say that of course it affect me a lot. There was tough and it's still tough. But I just understand that it's not my fault. Like, I have zero control. If I could do something, of course I would do it, but I cannot do anything. Just have this understanding really helping me to stay strong." Read more: 'Lift Russia, Belarus ban', former Tennis great Billie Jean King urges Wimbledon Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is still undecided on allowing athletes from the said countries in this year's event. Earlier in the day, tennis great Billie Jean King urged Wimbledon to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, saying 'life is too short'. "Just keep it the same way as the other ones are. Life is too short. I think they should get prize money. Just have them play and get their money." Read more: Australian Open: Novak Djokovic crushes Andrey Rublev, marches to the semi-finals (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I want it to happen', Sabalenka on an all-Belarusian final at Australian Open

Tennis legend Billie Jean King has urged Wimbledon to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, who were forbidden from participating in the tournament last year.

Tennis legend Billie Jean King has urged Wimbledon to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, who were forbidden from participating in the tournament last year. King, speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Australian open said 'life is too short' for such a ban to be imposed on the players of the two countries. "Just keep it the same way as the other ones are. Life is too short. I think they should get prize money. Just have them play and get their money," said King. King, a six-time Wimbledon champion referred to players not receiving the ranking points due to the ban. Last year's Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina who was born in Russia and switched allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018 was denied the 2000 points and as a result, was seeded 22nd in the opening Grand Slam of the year. "It's the ranking points, for sure. They have to have it. Rybakina, they've seeded her 22, but because she won Wimbledon she's not (seeded higher)." WATCH | Gravitas: Wimbledon bans Russian and Belarusian players Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. "We believe we have made the most responsible decision possible in the circumstances. And that within the framework of the governance position, there`s no viable alternative to the decision we have taken in this truly exceptional and tragic situation," said Ian Hewitt, chairman, All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) at the time. Read more: Wimbledon defends ban on Russian players, confirms Covid vaccination not mandatory for participation Earlier this month, controversy erupted in Melbourne Park when Ukrainian ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko complained about spotting the Russian flag in the stands. He took to Twitter and complained about the ban as Russian and Belarusian athletes are competing under neutral flags. "I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open today. I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its 'neutral flag' policy," he tweeted. Read more: Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint Afterwards, Tennis Australia released a statement saying the flags from the two countries were outright banned now. "Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside." After Tennis Australia's decision, the Russian embassy in Australia released a statement as well and slammed the tournament organisers for their partisan behaviour. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Lift Russia, Belarus ban', former Tennis great Billie Jean King urges Wimbledon

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios underwent a successful 'knee surgery' on Monday after sustaining the injury ahead of the Australian Open. Kyrgios' manager Daniel Horsfall informed about the news and said the player was targeting a March return to play at the Indian Wells ATP Masters.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios underwent a successful 'knee surgery' on Monday after sustaining the injury ahead of the Australian Open. Kyrgios' manager Daniel Horsfall informed about the news and said the player was targeting a March return to play at the Indian Wells ATP Masters. "The surgery was a great success. We couldn't have been more pleased with the outcome of it. Now we will be pushing ahead for a speedy recovery and are aiming to see everyone at Indian Wells," Horsfall told the Melbourne Age newspaper. The 27-year-old announced the decision to pull out on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on the home grand slam. “It’s just bad timing. That’s life, you know. Injuries are part of sport...I’m not doubting that I’ll be back to my full strength. Devastated obviously," said Kyrgios. "It’s my home tournament and going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal.” Read more: Australian Open 2023: 'Devastated' Nick Kyrgios pulls out of the tournament due to injury The divisive Australian had been suffering from an ankle niggle in the lead-up to the tournament. He played a charity match against Novak Djokovic prior to the Grand Slam to assess if he could go the distance when the tournament begins. However, Kyrgios' physio Will Maher informed media that a cyst had formed in his knee and that he didn't 'pull well' after the match. “We used the charity event against Novak to see if he could compete at the highest level...it was worth persevering to see if he can get back on court." After years of underachieving, Kyrgios had a terrific run of form in 2022. He won the doubles at the Australian Open alongside his countrymate Thanasi Kokkinakis and later reached the final at Wimbledon. This year, many tennis pundits predicted that Kyrgios had an outside chance of winning the tournament. Read more:'Netflix curse is real!': Netizens react after tennis players featuring in show crash out of Australian Open (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nick Kyrgios undergoes 'successful' surgery, targets a March return

Player-turned-commentator Jelena Dokic lashed out Monday at the "disgusting" body-shaming she has endured online while working at the Australian Open. The Australian, who rose to a career-high world ranking of four in 2002, has been conducting on-air interviews at Melbourne Park after players win matches.

Player-turned-commentator Jelena Dokic lashed out Monday at the "disgusting" body-shaming she has endured online while working at the Australian Open. The Australian, who rose to a career-high world ranking of four in 2002, has been conducting on-air interviews at Melbourne Park after players win matches. But the 39-year-old, who has been open in the past about her experiences with family violence and mental health, said she had repeatedly come in for online abuse over her weight. "The 'body shaming' and 'fat shaming' over the last 24 hours has been insane," she wrote on Instagram. She said it came from all over the world, but particularly Serbia. She was born in Croatia and has a Serbian father. "And yes a lot of them are women too. So much for 'women supporting women'," she added. Dokic, who last year revealed she nearly committed suicide, said the abuse was "evil and disgusting". View this post on Instagram A post shared by JELENA DOKIC 🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺 (@dokic_jelena) × "The most common comment being 'what happened to her, she is so big'?" she wrote. "I will tell you what happened, I am finding a way and surviving and fighting. And it really doesn't matter what I am doing and what happened because size shouldn't matter. "What matters is your online abuse, bullying and fat shaming. That's what matters because those of you that do it are just evil, bad, mean and ignorant people." Dokic sprang to prominence at Wimbledon in 1999 when she stunned world number one Martina Hingis in the first round. Read More: Australian Open: Djokovic completes De Minaur demolition to storm into the quarter-final She won six WTA singles titles during her career and reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 2000, but struggled for years to escape the influence of her volatile father Damir. They endured a well-documented split and she tumbled down the rankings. The family rift followed a series of bizarre episodes including Damir being banned from the All England Club at Wimbledon and at one point claiming his daughter had been kidnapped. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open commentator calls out 'disgusting trolls' over body shaming

Nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic cruised into the quarter-final of the Australian Open after brushing aside the home hope of Alex de Minaur 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 in straight sets.

Nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic cruised into the quarter-final of the Australian Open after brushing aside the home hope of Alex de Minaur 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 in straight sets. Djokovic was at his imperious best on the evening as he made short work of de Minaur, who looked bereft of ideas for the major part of the game. With hamstring niggle persisting, Djokovic took the approach of going hard and early at his opponent. The Australian 22nd seed would have hoped Djokovic to be circumspect and careful in his shot-making but the Serb came out full guns blazing. The Australian managed to stay in the first game till 5-2 before Djokovic changed gears to achieve the breakpoint. Afterwards, it was a one-way street as Djokovic toyed with his opponent. WATCH | Djokovic can't forget Australian deportation but wants to move on × The Serb reflected on the same and said it was his 'best game of the year' so far. "I played the best match of this year so far. Obviously, you never know what's going to happen on the court...I thought first four or five games were quite close, but after one break in the first set I felt more loose and free to go through the ball and be more aggressive." "I really wanted to win in straight sets." The fourth-round victory means that Djokovic is 25 matches unbeaten in the tournament, with the streak stretching from 2018. The Serb will now square up against fifth seed Andrey Rublev who had a Houdini-esque escape on Monday, coming out on top after a five-set epic clash against Danish teenager Holger Rune. Read more: Australian Open: Djokovic battles rowdy fans and niggle to blast into the third round With most of the top 10 seeds viz. Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud and Taylor Fritz already out of the tournament, the path to a 22nd Major looks increasingly promising for Djokovic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Djokovic completes De Minaur demolition to storm into the quarter-final

Australian Open 2023 has been full of surprises, with most top seeds falling before even reaching the second week of the tournament. However, one rather bizarre connection has surprised the fans.

Australian Open 2023 has been full of surprises, with most top seeds falling before even reaching the second week of the tournament. However, one rather bizarre connection has surprised the fans. Netflix released the first part of its highly anticipated docuseries 'Break Point' earlier this month. However, every athlete to have been involved in the series has been knocked out of the tournament, leading the fans to believe that the 'Netflix curse' is real. Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime's fourth-round exit on Sunday meant that none of the players in the series had made it to the second week of the opening Grand Slam of the year. When quizzed if the 'Netflix curse' was real, Auger-Aliassime said, "I thought it was funny. Maybe the players that lost, maybe they do feel like it's connected, somehow. I don't think they do. I don't think it's connected, anyhow. It's funny how things work out sometimes." Read more: Australian Open: Andy Murray grinds down Kokkinakis in late-night epic The first five episodes of the series focus on the up-and-coming stars of the tennis world. The series attempts to create a narrative that these stars will be stepping out of the shadows of greats such as Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams. Um. Felix Auger-Aliassime is out.#NetflixCurse #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/iDigzwLKRU — James Gray (@jamesgraysport) January 22, 2023 × However, Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud, Matteo Berrettini, Ons Jabeur, Thanasi Kokkinakis, and Maria Sakkari - the ones to have appeared on the show have already been eliminated. Meanwhile, divisive Australian star Nick Kyrgios withdrew before the tournament began due to an injury. Ajla Tomljanovic and Paula Badosa were the other casualties to have not even made it to the court. Read more: Australian Open 2023: 'Devastated' Nick Kyrgios pulls out of the tournament due to injury Netizens had an amusing time as one said, "The Netflix Curse has been the best bit of the Australian Open to keep tabs on." Meanwhile, another drew comparisons with the first season of Drive to Survive by stating, "Same as DTS season 1, very few of the stars want to participate so the show gives a very flawed perception of who is capable of winning slams." The series is an attempt by the streaming giant to replicate the success of "F1: Drive to Survive". The Netflix docuseries took the world of F1 motorsports to households and the sport has seen a gigantic increase in popularity and audience. The makers of 'Break Point' used the same template where certain athletes are interviewed through the course of the episodes. The second part of the series drops in June. Read more: Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Netflix curse is real!': Netizens react after tennis players featuring in show crash out of Australian Open

Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early.

The 31st-ranked American, son of 1998 Australian Open champion Petr Korda, blasted past the seventh seed 7-6 (9/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) on Rod Laver Arena to race into the last 16.

Korda's upset teed up a clash with Polish 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz who battled past Canada's Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3 - for a place in the quarter-finals.

"An unbelievable match, I sort of knew what I had to do and I stuck with it even when I was going up and down with the emotions," said the 22-year-old Korda, adding that his game plan was "just go for it".

Medvedev was a losing finalist at the last two Australian Opens, to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and then in a demoralising five-set defeat 12 months ago against Rafael Nadal after leading by two sets.

He was attempting to become only the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Melbourne Park finals after Djokovic, Mats Wilander, and Ivan Lendl.&nbsp;

But that quest is now over as he joined defending champion Nadal, second seed Casper Ruud and eighth seed Taylor Fritz as high-profile first-week casualties at the season-opening Grand Slam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-in-straight-sets-553694" target="_blank">Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets</a>

Djokovic remains in the hunt for a 10th title, but has a hamstring injury and confessed on Thursday he was "worried" it could derail his tournament.

Korda displayed his credentials when he pushed Djokovic to the brink in the Adelaide International final this month, earning a championship point before the Serb rallied to win in three close sets.

The Florida native bounced back to claim a pair of victories in Melbourne against Cristian Garin and Yosuke Watanuki before meeting former world number one Medvedev.

Korda started aggressively, earning four break points in an 11-minute opening game before putting one away to take an early edge.

The Russian had minor treatment on his right hand at the changeover before Korda consolidated for 2-0.

The American dominated from the baseline in some lung-busting rallies and broke again for 4-1 before the Russian came roaring back with two breaks to level it up at 4-4.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/another-top-seed-casualty-in-australian-open-as-casper-ruud-crashes-in-second-round-554053">Read more:&nbsp;Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round</a>

It went to a thrilling tiebreak with Korda converting on his third set point after an 85-minute slugfest.

Korda, coached by former Czech star Radek Stepanek, broke early again in the second set with Medvedev having no answers this time.

He began the third in the same vein, breaking immediately as the Russian wilted under the onslaught.&nbsp;

Medvedev again rallied to take it to another tiebreak before exiting the tournament at the earliest stage since 2018.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early.

Sebastian Korda stunned two-time losing finalist Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open on Friday, adding the Russian to a growing list of top seeds crashing out early. The 31st-ranked American, son of 1998 Australian Open champion Petr Korda, blasted past the seventh seed 7-6 (9/7), 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) on Rod Laver Arena to race into the last 16. Korda's upset teed up a clash with Polish 10th seed Hubert Hurkacz who battled past Canada's Denis Shapovalov 7-6 (7/3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3 - for a place in the quarter-finals. "An unbelievable match, I sort of knew what I had to do and I stuck with it even when I was going up and down with the emotions," said the 22-year-old Korda, adding that his game plan was "just go for it". Medvedev was a losing finalist at the last two Australian Opens, to Novak Djokovic in 2021 and then in a demoralising five-set defeat 12 months ago against Rafael Nadal after leading by two sets. He was attempting to become only the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Melbourne Park finals after Djokovic, Mats Wilander, and Ivan Lendl. But that quest is now over as he joined defending champion Nadal, second seed Casper Ruud and eighth seed Taylor Fritz as high-profile first-week casualties at the season-opening Grand Slam. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets Djokovic remains in the hunt for a 10th title, but has a hamstring injury and confessed on Thursday he was "worried" it could derail his tournament. Korda displayed his credentials when he pushed Djokovic to the brink in the Adelaide International final this month, earning a championship point before the Serb rallied to win in three close sets. The Florida native bounced back to claim a pair of victories in Melbourne against Cristian Garin and Yosuke Watanuki before meeting former world number one Medvedev. Korda started aggressively, earning four break points in an 11-minute opening game before putting one away to take an early edge. The Russian had minor treatment on his right hand at the changeover before Korda consolidated for 2-0. The American dominated from the baseline in some lung-busting rallies and broke again for 4-1 before the Russian came roaring back with two breaks to level it up at 4-4. Read more: Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round It went to a thrilling tiebreak with Korda converting on his third set point after an 85-minute slugfest. Korda, coached by former Czech star Radek Stepanek, broke early again in the second set with Medvedev having no answers this time. He began the third in the same vein, breaking immediately as the Russian wilted under the onslaught. Medvedev again rallied to take it to another tiebreak before exiting the tournament at the earliest stage since 2018. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Two-time finalist Daniil Medvedev crashes out in straight sets

Second seed Casper Ruud was sent packing in the Australian Open second round Thursday with defeat to hard-hitting American Jenson Brooksby, a day after Rafael Nadal also went out.

The Norwegian Ruud, who took a medical timeout after the second set, succumbed 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (4/7), 6-2 to the 39th-ranked Brooksby on Rod Laver Arena.

His early exit left the tournament without its top two seeds in week one after Nadal's shock loss on the same court Wednesday to another American in Mackenzie McDonald.

It opens the door to Novak Djokovic winning a 10th Melbourne title and temporarily derails Ruud's dreams of becoming world number one.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/defending-champion-and-top-seed-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-of-the-australian-open-553912">WATCH |&nbsp;Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open</a>

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"First and foremost, Casper is a warrior, I knew it would be a great battle out there," said Brooksby, 22.

"I'm just really proud of my mental resolve after the third-set battle didn't go my way, and to turn it around. I&nbsp;thought I was playing really strong and I just didn't want to lose my focus out there."

The 24-year-old Ruud's defeat ended any hope he had of assuming the world number-one ranking from Carlos Alcaraz, who is absent from Melbourne with an injury.

Only two players can now achieve the feat if they lift the trophy, Serbian superstar Djokovic or Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. 
According to the governing body ATP, Ruud could have done so by winning or simply reaching the final, as long as neither Djokovic nor Tsitsipas claimed the title.

That now won't happen in a blow for a player who enjoyed a breakthrough 2022, reaching the final of both the French and US Opens.

Brooksby, who is on his Australian Open debut, will face Tommy Paul next after his fellow American beat Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in five sets.

Brooksby, whose best Grand Slam result was reaching the round of 16 at the 2021 US Open, took charge in the first set, breaking twice, with the Norwegian hitting 15 unforced errors to slump behind.

Ruud, who was scheduled to meet Djokovic in the semi-finals, regrouped at the changeover and earned two break points on Brooksby's opening serve in set two, but he failed to convert.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no2-casper-ruud-takes-inspiration-from-roger-federers-send-off-520601">Read more:&nbsp;World no.2 Casper Ruud takes inspiration from Roger Federer's send-off</a>

They traded breaks through a gruelling second set before the American earned a set point at 5-6 and after a 26-shot rally moved two sets clear on a lucky net cord. &nbsp;

Ruud left the court for a medical timeout at the changeover, apparently for an abdominal problem.&nbsp;

His game didn't improve when he returned, broken two more times before staging a remarkable comeback.

He saved three match points at 3-5 as Brooksby became agitated, slamming his racquet on the ground, before taking it to a tiebreak where he broke early to take it to a fourth set.

But, undeterred, the gutsy American reset to break Ruud immediately and race to a 3-0 lead.

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Second seed Casper Ruud was sent packing in the Australian Open second round Thursday with defeat to hard-hitting American Jenson Brooksby, a day after Rafael Nadal also went out.

Second seed Casper Ruud was sent packing in the Australian Open second round Thursday with defeat to hard-hitting American Jenson Brooksby, a day after Rafael Nadal also went out. The Norwegian Ruud, who took a medical timeout after the second set, succumbed 6-3, 7-5, 6-7 (4/7), 6-2 to the 39th-ranked Brooksby on Rod Laver Arena. His early exit left the tournament without its top two seeds in week one after Nadal's shock loss on the same court Wednesday to another American in Mackenzie McDonald. It opens the door to Novak Djokovic winning a 10th Melbourne title and temporarily derails Ruud's dreams of becoming world number one. WATCH | Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open × "First and foremost, Casper is a warrior, I knew it would be a great battle out there," said Brooksby, 22. "I'm just really proud of my mental resolve after the third-set battle didn't go my way, and to turn it around. I thought I was playing really strong and I just didn't want to lose my focus out there." The 24-year-old Ruud's defeat ended any hope he had of assuming the world number-one ranking from Carlos Alcaraz, who is absent from Melbourne with an injury. Only two players can now achieve the feat if they lift the trophy, Serbian superstar Djokovic or Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas. According to the governing body ATP, Ruud could have done so by winning or simply reaching the final, as long as neither Djokovic nor Tsitsipas claimed the title. That now won't happen in a blow for a player who enjoyed a breakthrough 2022, reaching the final of both the French and US Opens. Brooksby, who is on his Australian Open debut, will face Tommy Paul next after his fellow American beat Spain's Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in five sets. Brooksby, whose best Grand Slam result was reaching the round of 16 at the 2021 US Open, took charge in the first set, breaking twice, with the Norwegian hitting 15 unforced errors to slump behind. Ruud, who was scheduled to meet Djokovic in the semi-finals, regrouped at the changeover and earned two break points on Brooksby's opening serve in set two, but he failed to convert. Read more: World no.2 Casper Ruud takes inspiration from Roger Federer's send-off They traded breaks through a gruelling second set before the American earned a set point at 5-6 and after a 26-shot rally moved two sets clear on a lucky net cord. Ruud left the court for a medical timeout at the changeover, apparently for an abdominal problem. His game didn't improve when he returned, broken two more times before staging a remarkable comeback. He saved three match points at 3-5 as Brooksby became agitated, slamming his racquet on the ground, before taking it to a tiebreak where he broke early to take it to a fourth set. But, undeterred, the gutsy American reset to break Ruud immediately and race to a 3-0 lead. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round

Former world number one Andy&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;produced one of his greatest ever comebacks to sink home hope Thanasi Kokkinakis in a titanic second-round thriller at the Australian Open in the early hours of Friday morning.

The 35-year-old Scot looked down and out against an inspired Kokkinakis as he trailed by two sets and 2-5 but displayed his trademark warrior spirit to somehow claw out a 4-6 6-7(4) 7-6(5) 6-3 7-5 victory after five hours and 45 minutes.

When&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;finally got the job done in what was his 250th Grand Slam match, the clock was just past 4.05am local time but a sizeable and vociferous crowd had remained glued to their seats inside the Margaret Court Arena.

It was another stupendous effort from the three-time Grand Slam champion whose career has been littered by such battles and who has stubbornly refused to call it a day since having a partly metal hip inserted in 2019.

Bizarrely he will now play Roberto Bautista Agut, the man who beat him at the 2019 Australian Open, after which&nbsp;Murray's career appeared to be over because of the hip condition.

While it felt absurd to have elite sport going on at such an hour,&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;simply did not care as he showed again his insatiable appetite for a scrap.

The 26-year-old Kokkinakis, whose own career has been too often blighted by injuries, dominated the opening two sets with the kind of aggressive tennis and ball-striking that made a mockery of his world ranking of 159.

Murray's resistance looked over when Kokkinakis led 5-2 in the third set with the Australian on the verge of his biggest career win. But&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;would not go away.

Kokkinakis got tight with the finishing line in sight and the venom gradually went out of his shots as&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;threw caution to the wind and locked on to his target.

Relentlessly&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;ground his way back into the contest to set up a deciding fifth set, sealing the fourth set with a second-serve ace.

A weary-looking Kokkinakis did not capitulate and the raucous atmosphere inside the stadium revived him early in set five as he kept his nose in front on serve.

There was pandemonium when he saved four break points at 3-3 and Kokkinakis was within two points of victory when&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;served at 4-5 in the decider.

But&nbsp;Murray's greater experience of such duels enabled him to get the crucial break of serve in the following game with a stunning forehand winner before sealing victory in the next game on his first match point with a backhand winner.

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Former world number one Andy Murray produced one of his greatest ever comebacks to sink home hope Thanasi Kokkinakis in a titanic second-round thriller at the Australian Open in the early hours of Friday morning.

Former world number one Andy Murray produced one of his greatest ever comebacks to sink home hope Thanasi Kokkinakis in a titanic second-round thriller at the Australian Open in the early hours of Friday morning. The 35-year-old Scot looked down and out against an inspired Kokkinakis as he trailed by two sets and 2-5 but displayed his trademark warrior spirit to somehow claw out a 4-6 6-7(4) 7-6(5) 6-3 7-5 victory after five hours and 45 minutes. When Murray finally got the job done in what was his 250th Grand Slam match, the clock was just past 4.05am local time but a sizeable and vociferous crowd had remained glued to their seats inside the Margaret Court Arena. It was another stupendous effort from the three-time Grand Slam champion whose career has been littered by such battles and who has stubbornly refused to call it a day since having a partly metal hip inserted in 2019. Bizarrely he will now play Roberto Bautista Agut, the man who beat him at the 2019 Australian Open, after which Murray's career appeared to be over because of the hip condition. While it felt absurd to have elite sport going on at such an hour, Murray simply did not care as he showed again his insatiable appetite for a scrap. The 26-year-old Kokkinakis, whose own career has been too often blighted by injuries, dominated the opening two sets with the kind of aggressive tennis and ball-striking that made a mockery of his world ranking of 159. Murray's resistance looked over when Kokkinakis led 5-2 in the third set with the Australian on the verge of his biggest career win. But Murray would not go away. Kokkinakis got tight with the finishing line in sight and the venom gradually went out of his shots as Murray threw caution to the wind and locked on to his target. Relentlessly Murray ground his way back into the contest to set up a deciding fifth set, sealing the fourth set with a second-serve ace. A weary-looking Kokkinakis did not capitulate and the raucous atmosphere inside the stadium revived him early in set five as he kept his nose in front on serve. There was pandemonium when he saved four break points at 3-3 and Kokkinakis was within two points of victory when Murray served at 4-5 in the decider. But Murray's greater experience of such duels enabled him to get the crucial break of serve in the following game with a stunning forehand winner before sealing victory in the next game on his first match point with a backhand winner. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian Open: Andy Murray grinds down Kokkinakis in late-night epic

A visibly distraught Rafael Nadal addressing the media admitted he was 'mentally destroyed' post his second-round exit from the Australian Open on Wednesday. “I can’t complain about my life at all.

A visibly distraught Rafael Nadal addressing the media admitted he was 'mentally destroyed' post his second-round exit from the Australian Open on Wednesday. “I can’t complain about my life at all. So just in terms of sports and in terms of injuries and tough moments, I mean, that’s another one. Just can’t say that I am not destroyed mentally at this time, because I will be lying." The Spaniard added that he felt 'super tired' after injuries had become a regular occurrence for him on the tour. "At the end, you need to keep going, no? Sometimes it's frustrating. Sometimes it's difficult to accept. Sometimes you feel super tired about all this stuff in terms of injuries." Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets Despite being dejected after crashing out of the tournament, the 22-time Grand Slam champion tried to look at the silver lining and hoped that the fresh injury did not keep him out of the court for long. "It’s hard for me, you know. But let’s see. I mean, hopefully it's nothing too bad. In the end, have been three positive weeks in terms of practice." "So I really hope that doesn’t put me out of the court for a long time, because then it’s tough to make all the recovery again. It's not only the recovery. It’s all the amount of work that you need to put together to come back at a decent level." Nadal was far from his best when squaring up against American challenger Mackenzie Mcdonald. The two-time winner at the iconic Rod Laver Arena lost the contest in straight sets with a tame 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 scoreline. WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it Nadal suffered what seemed like a possible hip injury during the match which forced him to take a conservative approach after already trailing behind. The physios tried their best but the body language of the 36-year-old gave it away that he wasn't going to be able to conjure another one of his famed comebacks. This was the worst result for Nadal at the majors in the last seven years. He had been knocked out of the first round of the Australian Open in 2016 as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit

Nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic on Thursday progressed to the third round of the Australian Open, battling a hamstring niggle and some unruly elements in the crowd.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Djokovic won 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-0 against&nbsp;Frenchman Enzo Couacaud. The 191-ranked ATP player managed to push Djokovic to the fourth set and at one point, threatened to pull off another upset.&nbsp;

Djokovic had a hamstring issue which hindered his movement across the court. After&nbsp;Couacaud took the second set via tiebreaker, it looked like the Serb may have a tough time staying with his competition.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old Frenchman, who had attributed the game against Djovokic&nbsp;as the 'biggest' of his career, regularly came up the net and used Djokovic's immobility to his advantage.&nbsp;

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Novak moves on 💪 
 
The 9x champion beats Couacaud 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-0 and will play Grigor Dimitrov in the third round.<a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/VMOcZklPlC">pic.twitter.com/VMOcZklPlC</a>
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However, the 21-time Grand Slam winner dug in deep, used his experience and managed to break Couacaud on his first serve in the third set.

After racing to a 3-0 advantage, Djokovic comfortably wrapped the set and did not allow any breathing room in the fourth set to Couacaud.&nbsp;

Apart from the slight niggle, Djokovic also had to contend with a few drunk spectators who repeatedly attempted to provoke the 'Serb'.&nbsp;

During the third set, Djokovic went to the chair umpire, complaining that the crowd member be kicked out for being "drunk out of his mind".&nbsp;

"The guy is drunk out of his mind, from the first point he's been provoking me.&nbsp;He's not here to watch tennis, he just wants to get in my head."

The chair umpire refused to intervene at the time but the security officers could be seen escorting four beer-guzzling spectators out of the stadium later.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/another-top-seed-casualty-in-australian-open-as-casper-ruud-crashes-in-second-round-554053">Read more:&nbsp;Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round</a>

"A lot was happening in tonight's match. Enzo deserves credit for the fight, he played some great tennis, especially in the second set and for deservedly pushing the match to the fourth set," said Djokovic after the match.&nbsp;

"We both had medical timeouts and struggled a little but, but I managed to respond well in the third and especially the fourth."

Djokovic will be meeting Grigor Dimitrov in the next round. The Serb has a good record against the Bulgarian, winning nine times out of the 10 they have squared up against each other.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/defending-champion-and-top-seed-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-of-the-australian-open-553912">WATCH |&nbsp;Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open</a>

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The last time Dimitrov came up top against Djokovic was at the ATP Masters 1000 Madrid in 2013.&nbsp;

"I haven't played Grigor in many years, I don't think we've ever faced each other here on this court," said Djokovic on the match-up.&nbsp;

"Hopefully it's going to be an entertaining match, I know him really well, we are friends off the court, Balkan brothers. Let the better player win."

With three of the top 10 seeds viz.&nbsp;Rafael Nadal, Casper Ruud and Taylor Fritz&nbsp;already out of the tournament, the path to a 22nd Major looks increasingly promising for Djokovic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic on Thursday progressed to the third round of the Australian Open, battling a hamstring niggle and some unruly elements in the crowd.

Nine-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena, Novak Djokovic on Thursday progressed to the third round of the Australian Open, battling a hamstring niggle and some unruly elements in the crowd. Djokovic won 6-1, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-0 against Frenchman Enzo Couacaud. The 191-ranked ATP player managed to push Djokovic to the fourth set and at one point, threatened to pull off another upset. Djokovic had a hamstring issue which hindered his movement across the court. After Couacaud took the second set via tiebreaker, it looked like the Serb may have a tough time staying with his competition. The 27-year-old Frenchman, who had attributed the game against Djovokic as the 'biggest' of his career, regularly came up the net and used Djokovic's immobility to his advantage. Novak moves on 💪 The 9x champion beats Couacaud 6-1 6-7(5) 6-2 6-0 and will play Grigor Dimitrov in the third round.@DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/VMOcZklPlC — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 19, 2023 × However, the 21-time Grand Slam winner dug in deep, used his experience and managed to break Couacaud on his first serve in the third set. After racing to a 3-0 advantage, Djokovic comfortably wrapped the set and did not allow any breathing room in the fourth set to Couacaud. Apart from the slight niggle, Djokovic also had to contend with a few drunk spectators who repeatedly attempted to provoke the 'Serb'. During the third set, Djokovic went to the chair umpire, complaining that the crowd member be kicked out for being "drunk out of his mind". "The guy is drunk out of his mind, from the first point he's been provoking me. He's not here to watch tennis, he just wants to get in my head." The chair umpire refused to intervene at the time but the security officers could be seen escorting four beer-guzzling spectators out of the stadium later. Read more: Another top seed casualty in Australian Open as Casper Ruud crashes in second round "A lot was happening in tonight's match. Enzo deserves credit for the fight, he played some great tennis, especially in the second set and for deservedly pushing the match to the fourth set," said Djokovic after the match. "We both had medical timeouts and struggled a little but, but I managed to respond well in the third and especially the fourth." Djokovic will be meeting Grigor Dimitrov in the next round. The Serb has a good record against the Bulgarian, winning nine times out of the 10 they have squared up against each other. WATCH | Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open The last time Dimitrov came up top against Djokovic was at the ATP Masters 1000 Madrid in 2013. "I haven't played Grigor in many years, I don't think we've ever faced each other here on this court," said Djokovic on the match-up. "Hopefully it's going to be an entertaining match, I know him really well, we are friends off the court, Balkan brothers. Let the better player win." With three of the top 10 seeds viz. Rafael Nadal, Casper Ruud and Taylor Fritz already out of the tournament, the path to a 22nd Major looks increasingly promising for Djokovic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Djokovic battles rowdy fans and niggle to blast into the third round

A day after crashing out of the Australian Open, Rafael Nadal has informed that he will be out of action for six to eight weeks with a hip flexor muscle injury. The 36-year-old took to Twitter to share the news and said, "Good afternoon.

A day after crashing out of the Australian Open, Rafael Nadal has informed that he will be out of action for six to eight weeks with a hip flexor muscle injury. The 36-year-old took to Twitter to share the news and said, "Good afternoon. I have carried out medical tests after the defeat yesterday." "The MRI shows a grade 2 lesion in the iliacus psoas of the left leg. Now it's sports rest and anti-inflammatory physiotherapy. Normal recovery time 6 to 8 weeks." Buenas tardes. He realizado pruebas médicas tras la derrota en el día de ayer. La resonancia magnética muestra una lesión grado 2 en el Psoas Iliaco de su pierna izquierda. Ahora toca reposo deportivo y fisioterapia anti inflamatoria. Tiempo normal de recuperación 6 a 8 semanas. pic.twitter.com/xwcKSyTzhp — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 19, 2023 × The recovery time means that Nadal might miss the ATP 1000 Indian Wells and Miami scheduled to take place in March. The failure to participate in those events will hurt Nadal's ranking. However, if the 22-time Grand Slam winner does not face any other injury hurdle, he could be back in time for the clay-court season that begins in mid-April and leads into the French Open. Australian Open heartbreak for Nadal The Spanish world number two could not compete at his best during the second-round encounter with American challenger Mackenzie McDonald, primarily due to the injury. Behind the eight-ball curve, Nadal took a medical time-out when trailing 6-4, 5-3 to patch himself up and give one final push. The physios tried their best but the two-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena looked ginger and timid in his movement across the court. In the end, the defending champion bowed out of the tournament, suffering a 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 straight sets defeat - his worst result in the last seven years at the majors. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets After the match, Nadal said he did not want to retire from the match and it was better it ended like this. "I didn't want to retire, to be defending champion here. Better like this at the end. I lost. Congratulate the opponent." WATCH | Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open × Though, a visibly distraught Nadal admitted he was admitted 'mentally destroyed' post his loss. “I can’t complain about my life at all. So just in terms of sports and in terms of injuries and tough moments, I mean, that’s another one. Just can’t say that I am not destroyed mentally at this time, because I will be lying." Read more: 'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit The Spaniard added that he felt 'super tired' after injuries had become a regular occurrence for him on the tour. "At the end, you need to keep going, no? Sometimes it's frustrating. Sometimes it's difficult to accept. Sometimes you feel super tired about all this stuff in terms of injuries." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rafael Nadal sidelined from tennis action for six-eight weeks due to injury

Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashed out of the Australian Open 2023 on Wednesday, suffering a 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 straight sets defeat at a deathly silent Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park.&nbsp;

Nadal was far from his best as he suffered what seemed like a possible hip injury, forcing him to take a conservative approach throughout the match. The Spaniard's body language was a dead giveaway that he was not feeling up to the task.&nbsp;

This was the worst result for Nadal at the majors in the last seven years. He had been knocked out of the first round of the Australian Open in 2016 as well.&nbsp;

Though Nadal was not at his pristine best, McDonald did his homework and came off the blocks in a quick manner. He kept Nadal on the backfoot and never allowed the 22-time Grand Slam winner to ease into the match.&nbsp;

"He's an incredible champion, he's never going to give up regardless of the situation. I was trying to stay focused on what I was trying to do and he kind of got me out of my rhythm, and I just got through it," said&nbsp;McDonald in the post-match interview.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-2023-australian-open-be-rafael-nadals-last-appearance-in-melbourne-spaniard-reveals-547330">Read more:&nbsp;Will 2023 Australian Open be Rafael Nadal's last at Melbourne Park? Spaniard reveals</a>

In the first set, Nadal was way off his pace as he only made 65 per cent of his first serves. The American cleverly navigated around Nadal's heavy forehand shots and kept his nose ahead in the opening exchanges.&nbsp;

Behind the eight-ball curve,&nbsp;Nadal took a medical time-out when trailing 6-4, 5-3 to patch himself up and give one final push. The physios tried their best but the&nbsp;body language of the 36-year-old&nbsp;gave it away that he wasn't going to be able to conjure another one of his famed comebacks.

The usual fistbumps and the elaborate pre-serve routine were missing as Nadal looked a pale shadow of his imperious best.&nbsp;

Braving the pain, a stone-faced Nadal managed to give something to the desperate crowd in the third set. He pushed and held his serve till 5-4. However, the errors crept in again and McDonald seized on the opportunity and made the two-time Australian Open champion pay.&nbsp;

Nadal's defeat allows his compatriot Novak Djokovic a chance to get level on the number of Grand Slams won. The Serbian currently has 21 majors under his belt and will be attempting to go the distance after his most fierce rival over the years has bowed out.&nbsp;

The defeat also means that Nadal will tumble in the world rankings to no. 6. If this was his last hurrah at the opening Grand Slam of the year, it was rather anti-climactic, to say the least.&nbsp;

As for MacDonald, he will be a relieved man after securing the biggest win of his career so far. He will take on the winner of Dalibor Svrcina vs Yoshito Nishioka in the third round.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashed out of the Australian Open 2023 on Wednesday, suffering a 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 straight sets defeat at a deathly silent Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashed out of the Australian Open 2023 on Wednesday, suffering a 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 straight sets defeat at a deathly silent Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Nadal was far from his best as he suffered what seemed like a possible hip injury, forcing him to take a conservative approach throughout the match. The Spaniard's body language was a dead giveaway that he was not feeling up to the task. This was the worst result for Nadal at the majors in the last seven years. He had been knocked out of the first round of the Australian Open in 2016 as well. Though Nadal was not at his pristine best, McDonald did his homework and came off the blocks in a quick manner. He kept Nadal on the backfoot and never allowed the 22-time Grand Slam winner to ease into the match. "He's an incredible champion, he's never going to give up regardless of the situation. I was trying to stay focused on what I was trying to do and he kind of got me out of my rhythm, and I just got through it," said McDonald in the post-match interview. Read more: Will 2023 Australian Open be Rafael Nadal's last at Melbourne Park? Spaniard reveals In the first set, Nadal was way off his pace as he only made 65 per cent of his first serves. The American cleverly navigated around Nadal's heavy forehand shots and kept his nose ahead in the opening exchanges. Behind the eight-ball curve, Nadal took a medical time-out when trailing 6-4, 5-3 to patch himself up and give one final push. The physios tried their best but the body language of the 36-year-old gave it away that he wasn't going to be able to conjure another one of his famed comebacks. The usual fistbumps and the elaborate pre-serve routine were missing as Nadal looked a pale shadow of his imperious best. Braving the pain, a stone-faced Nadal managed to give something to the desperate crowd in the third set. He pushed and held his serve till 5-4. However, the errors crept in again and McDonald seized on the opportunity and made the two-time Australian Open champion pay. Nadal's defeat allows his compatriot Novak Djokovic a chance to get level on the number of Grand Slams won. The Serbian currently has 21 majors under his belt and will be attempting to go the distance after his most fierce rival over the years has bowed out. The defeat also means that Nadal will tumble in the world rankings to no. 6. If this was his last hurrah at the opening Grand Slam of the year, it was rather anti-climactic, to say the least. As for MacDonald, he will be a relieved man after securing the biggest win of his career so far. He will take on the winner of Dalibor Svrcina vs Yoshito Nishioka in the third round. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets

In a shocking feat for fans all around the world, defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal has crashed out of the Australian Open in round 2. According to reports, an injury ended the top seed's title defence.

Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open

The future of women's tennis was on display at the iconic Rod Laver Arena when Coco Gauff squared up against Emma Raducanu. The contest lived to its billing as Gauff came out on top, beating Raducanu 6-3 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open.

The future of women's tennis was on display at the iconic Rod Laver Arena when Coco Gauff squared up against Emma Raducanu. The contest lived to its billing as Gauff came out on top, beating Raducanu 6-3 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open. 18-year-old Gauff proved too hot to handle for the former US Open champion who looked ginger in the opening set. The American broke Raducanu 2-1 and raced to wrap the set within no time. The 20-year-old Briton pushed Gauff in the second set and took it to a tie-breaker before coming up short to the heavy shot-making and serve of Gauff. "In the beginning, you know, I think we both started off rocky but I think the match was good quality for the most part considering the circumstances. Both of us were nervous and this was a long-anticipated match-up since the draw came out so I’m glad this was a good match for you guys," said Gauff in the post-match interview. Raducanu had a minor abs problem on the court which came on the back of her ankle injury scare. 10 days prior to the start of the Australian Open, Raducanu exited an Auckland warm-up tournament injured and in tears. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets Raducanu stunned the tennis world by emerging from qualifying to win the US Open in 2021 but has struggled on tour since. Gauff, despite being younger than Raducanu has managed to stay more competitive on the circuit. After advancing to the next round, Gauff's eyes will firmly be on lifting the Daphne Akhurst Cup on January 28. Gauff would be aiming to become the youngest Australian Open champion since 16-year-old Martina Hingis won the tournament in 1997 Read more: 'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit Following the retirements last year of champion Ash Barty and 23-times major winner Serena Williams, the tennis world has been looking for its prodigies to step up and carry the legacy forward. The match-up on Wednesday proved that more-than-worthy successors were in the offing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Coco Gauff beats Emma Raducanu in the battle of prodigies

An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday.

The Russian seventh seed, who lost the 2021 decider at Melbourne Park to Novak Djokovic and then against Rafael Nadal last year, battled past the Australian wildcard entry 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena.

He next meets either dangerous American Sebastian Korda, who made the Adelaide International final this month, or Japanese qualifier Yosuke Watanuki.

Medvedev is on the same side of the draw as Nadal and was scheduled to meet him in the last eight.

But with the Spaniard's shock defeat Wednesday to Mackenzie McDonald, his route to a third straight final has opened up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-rafael-nadal-crashes-out-in-straight-sets-553694" target="_blank">Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets</a>

"It was a great match. Even the score in the second and third sets doesn't reflect everything that went on the court," said the Russian.

"He managed to break me three times in the first set, which doesn't happen very often. I'm a bit disappointed in myself, but he played amazing."

The Russian dropped just three games in the demolition of Marcos Giron in the first round, but met stiffer resistance initially from Millman, with plenty of long rallies.

They went toe-to-toe in the first set with both players struggling on serve before the world number eight broke for a fourth time to seal the set.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-say-im-not-destroyed-rafael-nadal-after-shock-australian-open-exit-553765">Read more:&nbsp;'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit</a>

Medvedev moved up a gear in the second set, and when Millman netted a backhand to give him a 2-1 advantage he put his foot to the floor to take full control.

There was no way back for the Australian, with Medvedev in the zone as he raced to victory.

"Physically for both of us it was tough," said Medvedev, who is bidding to become just the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Australian Open finals, after Djokovic, Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl.&nbsp;

"But I felt amazing."

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An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday.

An irrepressible Daniil Medvedev overcame a partisan crowd and tough veteran John Millman to march a step closer towards a third consecutive Australian Open final on Wednesday. The Russian seventh seed, who lost the 2021 decider at Melbourne Park to Novak Djokovic and then against Rafael Nadal last year, battled past the Australian wildcard entry 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 on Margaret Court Arena. He next meets either dangerous American Sebastian Korda, who made the Adelaide International final this month, or Japanese qualifier Yosuke Watanuki. Medvedev is on the same side of the draw as Nadal and was scheduled to meet him in the last eight. But with the Spaniard's shock defeat Wednesday to Mackenzie McDonald, his route to a third straight final has opened up. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets "It was a great match. Even the score in the second and third sets doesn't reflect everything that went on the court," said the Russian. "He managed to break me three times in the first set, which doesn't happen very often. I'm a bit disappointed in myself, but he played amazing." The Russian dropped just three games in the demolition of Marcos Giron in the first round, but met stiffer resistance initially from Millman, with plenty of long rallies. They went toe-to-toe in the first set with both players struggling on serve before the world number eight broke for a fourth time to seal the set. Read more: 'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit Medvedev moved up a gear in the second set, and when Millman netted a backhand to give him a 2-1 advantage he put his foot to the floor to take full control. There was no way back for the Australian, with Medvedev in the zone as he raced to victory. "Physically for both of us it was tough," said Medvedev, who is bidding to become just the fourth man in the Open era to reach three consecutive Australian Open finals, after Djokovic, Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl. "But I felt amazing." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Daniil Medvedev inches closer to a third consecutive Australian Open final

21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic was at his scintillating best in the opening round of the Australian Open. Making a comeback into the tournament after being deported from the Down Under country last year, Djokovic blasted&nbsp;Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena without much fuss.&nbsp;

Walking into a rousing reception from the Rod Laver Arena crowd, Djokovic dominated from the word go and came out trumps with an imposing&nbsp;&nbsp;6-3, 6-4, 6-0 scoreline.&nbsp;

Djokovic was off the blocks in a rusty manner as he had to save three break points in the fifth game. However, the nine-time winner at Melbourne Park regained his rhythm and broke next game to secure a 4-2 lead and quickly close out the set.&nbsp;

A brief hamstring issue in the second set appeared to cause some discomfort to the Serbian but he managed to soldier on and broke the Spaniard yet again for a 4-3 lead.&nbsp;

The last set proved too much for Baena who surrendered as Djovokic&nbsp;blitzed past him, winning six games in succession.&nbsp;

"Thank you for giving me such a welcoming reception that I could only dream of. "I feel really happy that I'm back here in Australia and on the court where I have had the biggest success in my career," said Djokovic after the match.&nbsp;

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"Definitely this court is the most special court in my life." 🫶 
 
🇷🇸 <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> thanks the fans at Rod Laver Arena. 
 
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— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1615347808047099904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Despite the controversy from the last year relatively fresh, Djokovic appears to have moved on. Prior to his match, Djokovic said he wouldn't be here if he had not moved on.&nbsp;

Djokovic came into the tournament on the back of an impressive showing at the Adelaide International where he secured his&nbsp;92nd career title.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-novak-djokovic-kicks-brother-agents-out-of-his-box-during-adelaide-intl-final-apologises-later-551012">WATCH: Novak Djokovic kicks brother &amp; agents out of his box during Adelaide Int'l final, apologises later</a>

"In a way, if I do hold grudges, probably if I'm not able to move on, I wouldn't be here.&nbsp;Also I have to say that the amount of positive experiences I had in Australia overwhelm the negative experience maybe of last year."

Djokovic has his eyes firmly set on matching his compatriot Rafel Nadal in the number of Grand Slams won. Nadal won the Australian Open and French Open last year to take his tally to 22 while Djokovic could only win Wimbledon to stay one behind on 21.

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21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic was at his scintillating best in the opening round of the Australian Open. Making a comeback into the tournament after being deported from the Down Under country last year, Djokovic blasted Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena without much fuss.

21-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic was at his scintillating best in the opening round of the Australian Open. Making a comeback into the tournament after being deported from the Down Under country last year, Djokovic blasted Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena without much fuss. Walking into a rousing reception from the Rod Laver Arena crowd, Djokovic dominated from the word go and came out trumps with an imposing 6-3, 6-4, 6-0 scoreline. Djokovic was off the blocks in a rusty manner as he had to save three break points in the fifth game. However, the nine-time winner at Melbourne Park regained his rhythm and broke next game to secure a 4-2 lead and quickly close out the set. A brief hamstring issue in the second set appeared to cause some discomfort to the Serbian but he managed to soldier on and broke the Spaniard yet again for a 4-3 lead. The last set proved too much for Baena who surrendered as Djovokic blitzed past him, winning six games in succession. "Thank you for giving me such a welcoming reception that I could only dream of. "I feel really happy that I'm back here in Australia and on the court where I have had the biggest success in my career," said Djokovic after the match. "Definitely this court is the most special court in my life." 🫶 🇷🇸 @DjokerNole thanks the fans at Rod Laver Arena. #AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/9xLab831gB — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2023 × Despite the controversy from the last year relatively fresh, Djokovic appears to have moved on. Prior to his match, Djokovic said he wouldn't be here if he had not moved on. Djokovic came into the tournament on the back of an impressive showing at the Adelaide International where he secured his 92nd career title. WATCH: Novak Djokovic kicks brother & agents out of his box during Adelaide Int'l final, apologises later "In a way, if I do hold grudges, probably if I'm not able to move on, I wouldn't be here. Also I have to say that the amount of positive experiences I had in Australia overwhelm the negative experience maybe of last year." Djokovic has his eyes firmly set on matching his compatriot Rafel Nadal in the number of Grand Slams won. Nadal won the Australian Open and French Open last year to take his tally to 22 while Djokovic could only win Wimbledon to stay one behind on 21. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Djokovic returns with a bang in quest for his 22nd Grand Slam title

Andy Murray stunned Italian 13th seed Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday, saving a match point to prevail over five gruelling sets and book a spot in the Australian Open second round. 
The three-time Grand Slam champion has battled major hip and abdominal injuries for half a decade but declared himself free of pain and fired up before the tournament.&nbsp;

His renowned grit was on full display in toppling the Italian 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 (7/9), 7-6 (10/6) in 4hrs 49mins under a closed roof on Rod Laver Arena due to extreme heat.

It was a huge win for the 35-year-old Briton, now ranked 66, to knock out last year's semi-finalist for a landmark 50th match-win at the season-opening Grand Slam.

"I'll be feeling this evening and tomorrow, but right now I'm unbelievably happy and proud of myself," said Murray, a five-time runner-up at Melbourne Park.

"I've put a lot of work into the last few months with my team to give me this opportunity to perform on stadiums like this, in matches like this and against players like Matteo and it paid off tonight."

It was Murray's first victory over a top 20 player at a Grand Slam since defeating ninth-ranked Kei Nishikori in the quarter-finals of the 2017 French Open.

The victory also brought up his 50th Australian Open match-win, becoming only the fifth man in the Open Era to achieve the feat alongside Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Stefan Edberg.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-and-belarusian-flags-banned-from-australian-open-after-ukraines-complaint-553391">Read more: Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint</a>

"I think some of the tennis at the end was really good, it felt like that playing," he said.

"He's a brilliant competitor, one of the best on tour, he always fights to the end and I did well to get through."&nbsp;

Coached by Ivan Lendl, who won the Melbourne Park title in 1989 and 1990, Murray broke once in the first set and twice in the second as the Italian struggled on his second serve while making a slew of unforced errors.

But Berrettini rallied in the third set with a break to move 3-2 clear and helped by six aces took it to a fourth set.

Nothing separated them and it went to a seesawing tiebreak that the Italian won on his third set point when Murray sent a forehand long.

Berrettini earned a match point 5-4 in the fifth but netted an easy half-volley to waste the opportunity and it again went to a tiebreak where an early break for Murray gave him the edge and he clung on.

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Andy Murray stunned Italian 13th seed Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday, saving a match point to prevail over five gruelling sets and book a spot in the Australian Open second round.

Andy Murray stunned Italian 13th seed Matteo Berrettini on Tuesday, saving a match point to prevail over five gruelling sets and book a spot in the Australian Open second round. The three-time Grand Slam champion has battled major hip and abdominal injuries for half a decade but declared himself free of pain and fired up before the tournament. His renowned grit was on full display in toppling the Italian 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 (7/9), 7-6 (10/6) in 4hrs 49mins under a closed roof on Rod Laver Arena due to extreme heat. It was a huge win for the 35-year-old Briton, now ranked 66, to knock out last year's semi-finalist for a landmark 50th match-win at the season-opening Grand Slam. "I'll be feeling this evening and tomorrow, but right now I'm unbelievably happy and proud of myself," said Murray, a five-time runner-up at Melbourne Park. "I've put a lot of work into the last few months with my team to give me this opportunity to perform on stadiums like this, in matches like this and against players like Matteo and it paid off tonight." It was Murray's first victory over a top 20 player at a Grand Slam since defeating ninth-ranked Kei Nishikori in the quarter-finals of the 2017 French Open. The victory also brought up his 50th Australian Open match-win, becoming only the fifth man in the Open Era to achieve the feat alongside Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Stefan Edberg. Read more: Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint "I think some of the tennis at the end was really good, it felt like that playing," he said. "He's a brilliant competitor, one of the best on tour, he always fights to the end and I did well to get through." Coached by Ivan Lendl, who won the Melbourne Park title in 1989 and 1990, Murray broke once in the first set and twice in the second as the Italian struggled on his second serve while making a slew of unforced errors. But Berrettini rallied in the third set with a break to move 3-2 clear and helped by six aces took it to a fourth set. Nothing separated them and it went to a seesawing tiebreak that the Italian won on his third set point when Murray sent a forehand long. Berrettini earned a match point 5-4 in the fifth but netted an easy half-volley to waste the opportunity and it again went to a tiebreak where an early break for Murray gave him the edge and he clung on. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Murray outlasts Berrettini after an epic five-setter in the first round

Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd.

The red, white and blue stripes of Russia were seen Monday during a first-round clash between Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl and Russia's Kamilla Rakhimova on day one.

"Flags from Russia and Belarus are banned onsite at the Australian Open," Tennis Australia said in a statement.

"Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday, we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside.

"The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy the tennis."

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, tennis players from the country have competed under a neutral flag, as is the case at the Australian Open.

Ukraine's ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, late Monday called on Tennis Australia to take action.

"I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open," he tweeted.

"I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its 'neutral flag' policy."

Baindl won the match 7-5, 6-7, (8/10), 6-1 and will face American Caty McNally in the second round.

Myroshnychenko last week urged the Australian Open to ban Russian and Belarusian players entirely -- the latter due to Belarus' support of Vladimir Putin's invasion.

Wimbledon went down that route last year, with players from Russia and Belarus barred, which led&nbsp;to the tournament being stripped of its ranking points by tennis's governing bodies.

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Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd.

Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd. The red, white and blue stripes of Russia were seen Monday during a first-round clash between Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl and Russia's Kamilla Rakhimova on day one. "Flags from Russia and Belarus are banned onsite at the Australian Open," Tennis Australia said in a statement. "Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday, we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside. "The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy the tennis." Since Russia invaded Ukraine, tennis players from the country have competed under a neutral flag, as is the case at the Australian Open. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, late Monday called on Tennis Australia to take action. "I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open," he tweeted. "I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its 'neutral flag' policy." Baindl won the match 7-5, 6-7, (8/10), 6-1 and will face American Caty McNally in the second round. Myroshnychenko last week urged the Australian Open to ban Russian and Belarusian players entirely -- the latter due to Belarus' support of Vladimir Putin's invasion. Wimbledon went down that route last year, with players from Russia and Belarus barred, which led to the tournament being stripped of its ranking points by tennis's governing bodies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia and Belarus flags banned at Australian Open after Ukraine protest

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover.

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover. However, Nadal was left perplexed as one of his racquets was missing. Agitated about the racquet, Nadal told the ballboy standing beside his seat, “It’s this one for restringing, not that [one you took]. I need the racket back.” Nadal told the chair umpire about the quandary who could be seen using the phone to request that the racquet be returned to the Spaniard. After looking a bit tense, Nadal saw the funny side of the incident and went towards his opponent Jack Draper and laughingly informed him about the situation. "The ballboy took my racquet" 😂 A definite first for Rafa!#AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/T4xqN4ZLBd — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2023 × Commentator John Fitzgerald joked at the sequence of events and said, "Goodness me, that's a big mistake and he knows. He knows the tension, he knows the sequence he wants to use the racquets in." Fitzgerald's co-commentator Mark Petsch added, “You don’t often get a first in a Rafa match after all these years, but that is definitely the first that that would’ve happened.” WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis It wasn't clear if Nadal got his racquet back but the distraction certainly didn't help him. The 36-year-old lost the second set 6-2 after having won the opening set comfortably against his British rival. Nadal, akin to most top tennis players is famous for his various idiosyncrasies and rituals before a tennis match. His trademark style of adjusting the shorts, touching the left and right shoulder, tucking the hair behind the ears and tweaking the nose and lastly touching the cheek prior to serving is a sight that most tennis lovers have grown accustomed to seeing over the years. Nadal is the defending champion and looking to extend his lead at the top with Novak Djokovic behind him standing on 21 Grand Slams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LVE HERE:

WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it

Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the Australian Open 2023 without stepping foot on the court. The 27-year-old announced his decision on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on his home grand slam.

Nick Kyrgios has pulled out of the Australian Open 2023 without stepping foot on the court. The 27-year-old announced his decision on the eve of his opening match and said he was 'devastated' to have missed out on his home grand slam. “It’s just bad timing. That’s life, you know. Injuries are part of sport...I’m not doubting that I’ll be back to my full strength. Devastated obviously," said Kyrgios in a hastily arranged press conference. "It’s my home tournament and going into this event as one of the favourites, it’s brutal.” The Australian had been struggling with an ankle issue, leading into the event. Kyrgios' physio Will Maher informed the media that a cyst had formed as a result of a small tear in his lateral meniscus. The divisive Australian participated in a charity match alongside Novak Djokovic last Friday. Maher said the match was used to see if Kyrgios could compete at the Grand Slam. However, he “didn’t pull up great” from Friday’s match. Read more: Nick Kyrgios settles legal case with Wimbledon fan he accused of being drunk “We used the charity event against Novak to see if he could compete at the highest level...it was worth persevering to see if he can get back on court." The defending champion in the doubles is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery to remove the cyst. The rehabilitation process may take five-six weeks and Kyrgios might only be available for Indian Wells which starts in March. After years of underachieving, Kyrgios had a terrific run of form in the second half of 2022, winning the title in Washington and reaching his first Grand Slam singles final at Wimbledon and the US Open quarter-finals. In the Australian Open 2022, Kyrgios partnered up with his countryman Thanasi Kokkinakis and went the distance by winning the title at Melbourne Park. Kyrgios has become the latest high-profile name to have withdrawn from the Australian Open. Previously, it was Japanese Naomi Osaka who withdrew from the tournament due to her pregnancy. Read more: Heartbreak! World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to miss Australian Open due to an injury (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open 2023: 'Devastated' Nick Kyrgios pulls out of the tournament due to injury

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.

The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena.

It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15.

He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller.&nbsp;

"Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said.

"It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him."

But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year.

Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-puzzled-rafael-nadal-looks-for-his-racquet-after-the-ballboy-nicks-it-553035">WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it</a>

He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner.

But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set.

The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies.

Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up.

Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-set-to-make-commentary-return-for-the-australian-open-549364">WATCH |&nbsp;Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open</a>

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Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final.

It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.&nbsp;

He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21.

Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday.

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Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday. The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena. It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15. He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller. "Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said. "It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him." But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year. Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing. WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner. But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set. The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies. Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up. Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory. WATCH | Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open × Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final. It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21. Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal overcomes Draper challenge in the opening round

A couple of days after withdrawing from the Australian Open, former world number 1 Naomi Osaka has revealed that she is pregnant and expecting her first child with American rapper Cordae. The two have been dating since 2019.&nbsp;

Osaka took to Twitter to share the joyous news and said she was looking forward to being a mom.&nbsp;

"I know that I have so much to look forward to in the future, one thing I'm looking forward to is for my kid to watch my matches and tell someone, 'That's my mom' haha," wrote Osaka.&nbsp;

Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion hinted that she will be taking off for the year but will return to the tournament in 2024.&nbsp;

"2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me and I hope I'll see you guys in the start of the next one cause I'll be at Aus 2024. Love you all infinitely."

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Can’t wait to get back on the court but here’s a little life update for 2023. <a href="https://t.co/GYXRnutU3I">pic.twitter.com/GYXRnutU3I</a>
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) <a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka/status/1613223970891010049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Many had anticipated the 25-year-old to return to the Rod Laver Arena to give another crack at the title, having been eliminated in the third round by American challenger, Amanda Anisimova last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbreak-world-no-1-carlos-alcaraz-to-miss-australian-open-due-to-an-injury-550173">Read more:&nbsp;Heartbreak! World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to miss Australian Open due to an injury</a>

Osaka has been missing from Tennis action since September. Her last appearance came in the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo where she withdrew in the second round after complaining of abdominal pain.&nbsp;

However, Osaka looked at the silver lining and said the time away from the game had helped her gain a new perspective.&nbsp;

"The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that its the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun," added Osaka.&nbsp;

"These few months away from the sport has really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I've dedicated my life to. I realize that life is so short and I don't take any moments for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure."

The Japanese reached a career-high ATP world no. 1 ranking in 2019 but has since slipped to 47th in the world.

She has a total of four Grand Slam singles titles in her cabinet and was crowned the world's top-earning female athlete for 2022 by Forbes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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A couple of days after withdrawing from the Australian Open, former world number 1 Naomi Osaka has revealed that she is pregnant and expecting her first child with American rapper Cordae.

A couple of days after withdrawing from the Australian Open, former world number 1 Naomi Osaka has revealed that she is pregnant and expecting her first child with American rapper Cordae. The two have been dating since 2019. Osaka took to Twitter to share the joyous news and said she was looking forward to being a mom. "I know that I have so much to look forward to in the future, one thing I'm looking forward to is for my kid to watch my matches and tell someone, 'That's my mom' haha," wrote Osaka. Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion hinted that she will be taking off for the year but will return to the tournament in 2024. "2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me and I hope I'll see you guys in the start of the next one cause I'll be at Aus 2024. Love you all infinitely." Can’t wait to get back on the court but here’s a little life update for 2023. pic.twitter.com/GYXRnutU3I — NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) January 11, 2023 × Many had anticipated the 25-year-old to return to the Rod Laver Arena to give another crack at the title, having been eliminated in the third round by American challenger, Amanda Anisimova last year. Read more: Heartbreak! World no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz to miss Australian Open due to an injury Osaka has been missing from Tennis action since September. Her last appearance came in the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo where she withdrew in the second round after complaining of abdominal pain. However, Osaka looked at the silver lining and said the time away from the game had helped her gain a new perspective. "The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that its the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun," added Osaka. "These few months away from the sport has really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I've dedicated my life to. I realize that life is so short and I don't take any moments for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure." The Japanese reached a career-high ATP world no. 1 ranking in 2019 but has since slipped to 47th in the world. She has a total of four Grand Slam singles titles in her cabinet and was crowned the world's top-earning female athlete for 2022 by Forbes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy after withdrawing from Australian Open, sets eye on a 2024 return

Players at this month's Australian Open will not be required to take COVID-19 tests and could play even if they had the virus, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Monday. The health policy, which Tiley said reflected what was happening in the wider community, is a marked change from strict protocols which surrounded the tournament over the past two years. The 2021 tournament took place in a biosecure bubble with spectators shut out for several days after an outbreak of the virus in the community, while last year nine-times champion Novak Djokovic was deported because of his stance on vaccines.

"We just wanted to follow what's currently in the community," Tiley told reporters at Melbourne Park. "We have gone a step further by making a recommendation around staying away when you're ill, and that our medical staff will continue to monitor that, with the players individually as well." Cricketer Matt Renshaw continued to play for Australia in a five-day test match against South Africa in Sydney last week despite testing positive for COVID. The batsman was isolated from his team mates for the first three days of the match but returned to the home dressing room after several negative tests.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-equals-rafael-nadals-atp-tally-in-stunning-win-over-sebastian-korda-to-win-adelaide-title-550520">Novak Djokovic equals Rafael Nadal's ATP tally in stunning win over Sebastian Korda to win Adelaide title</a>

"We've made it clear to our players, as well as our staff, if anyone is feeling unwell, stay home," Tiley added. "It's a normalised environment for us and, not dissimilar to the cricket, there will potentially be players that will compete with COVID." Melbourne endured some of the longest and strictest lockdowns in the world at the height of the pandemic but recommendations have long since replaced mandates as the cornerstone of public health policy in the city.

Players at this month's Australian Open will not be required to take COVID-19 tests and could play even if they had the virus, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Monday.

Players at this month's Australian Open will not be required to take COVID-19 tests and could play even if they had the virus, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Monday. The health policy, which Tiley said reflected what was happening in the wider community, is a marked change from strict protocols which surrounded the tournament over the past two years. The 2021 tournament took place in a biosecure bubble with spectators shut out for several days after an outbreak of the virus in the community, while last year nine-times champion Novak Djokovic was deported because of his stance on vaccines. "We just wanted to follow what's currently in the community," Tiley told reporters at Melbourne Park. "We have gone a step further by making a recommendation around staying away when you're ill, and that our medical staff will continue to monitor that, with the players individually as well." Cricketer Matt Renshaw continued to play for Australia in a five-day test match against South Africa in Sydney last week despite testing positive for COVID. The batsman was isolated from his team mates for the first three days of the match but returned to the home dressing room after several negative tests. Also read: Novak Djokovic equals Rafael Nadal's ATP tally in stunning win over Sebastian Korda to win Adelaide title "We've made it clear to our players, as well as our staff, if anyone is feeling unwell, stay home," Tiley added. "It's a normalised environment for us and, not dissimilar to the cricket, there will potentially be players that will compete with COVID." Melbourne endured some of the longest and strictest lockdowns in the world at the height of the pandemic but recommendations have long since replaced mandates as the cornerstone of public health policy in the city.

Players could play at Australian Open with COVID-19, confirms tournament director Craig Tiley

Retired Australian Open champion Ash Barty is returning to Melbourne Park for this year's event to mentor local hope Olivia Gadecki, who received a wildcard for the season's first Grand Slam. Former world number one Barty called time on her career last March, shortly after ending her country's 44-year wait for a home champion at the Australian Open. World number 202 Gadecki said at the United Cup in Sydney that Barty would be in her camp at Melbourne Park for the Jan. 16-29 tournament.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-even-if-novak-djokovic-is-not-no-1-hes-the-guy-to-beat-says-rajeev-ram-ahead-of-aus-open-549348">Exclusive: Even if Novak Djokovic is not No 1, he's the guy to beat, says Rajeev Ram ahead of Aus Open</a>

"I've been really fortunate to always be able to contact her if I have any questions or if I need advice, she has always been there for me," Gadecki told the Australian Associated Press. "The best part is she just treats me like a normal person and we can relate in that regard and off court is just as important as on court." The 20-year-old will begin her Australian Open preparations at next week's Hobart International.

Retired Australian Open champion Ash Barty is returning to Melbourne Park for this year's event to mentor local hope Olivia Gadecki, who received a wildcard for the season's first Grand Slam.

Retired Australian Open champion Ash Barty is returning to Melbourne Park for this year's event to mentor local hope Olivia Gadecki, who received a wildcard for the season's first Grand Slam. Former world number one Barty called time on her career last March, shortly after ending her country's 44-year wait for a home champion at the Australian Open. World number 202 Gadecki said at the United Cup in Sydney that Barty would be in her camp at Melbourne Park for the Jan. 16-29 tournament. Also read: Exclusive: Even if Novak Djokovic is not No 1, he's the guy to beat, says Rajeev Ram ahead of Aus Open "I've been really fortunate to always be able to contact her if I have any questions or if I need advice, she has always been there for me," Gadecki told the Australian Associated Press. "The best part is she just treats me like a normal person and we can relate in that regard and off court is just as important as on court." The 20-year-old will begin her Australian Open preparations at next week's Hobart International.

Former tennis player Ashleigh Barty to mentor local wildcard Olivia Gadecki at Australian Open

Tennis icon Boris Becker is set to return to commentary duties; weeks after his release from prison. The 55-year-old will be back on TV for the upcoming Australian Open which begins at Melbourne Park from January 16.

Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open

A month after his release from prison, Boris Becker will return as a consultant for Eurosport during the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tournament of the season, the sports television channel announced on Tuesday.&nbsp; "I am delighted that Boris Becker is returning to our Eurosport team at the Australian Open," said Jochen Gundel, one of the managers of the German subsidiary of Warner. Bros Discovery, the chain's parent company.&nbsp; "Since 2017, Boris has been an integral part of the tennis broadcasts on Eurosport."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/martina-navratilova-a-look-at-tennis-legends-records-as-she-fights-another-battle-549063">Martina Navratilova: A look at the tennis legend's records as she fights another battle</a>

The German six-time Grand Slam champion was released from prison in England last month after serving eight months of a two-and-a-half year sentence for flouting insolvency rules. Becker was found guilty of hiding £2.5 million ($3.1 million) of assets and loans to avoid paying debts. His lawyer explained that Becker, now 55, had "served his sentence" and was "not subject to any criminal restrictions in Germany".&nbsp; Becker will appear on Eurosport every day after the night sessions of the Australian Open which begins on January 16.

A month after his release from prison, Boris Becker will return as a consultant for Eurosport during the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tournament of the season, the sports television channel announced on Tuesday.

A month after his release from prison, Boris Becker will return as a consultant for Eurosport during the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam tournament of the season, the sports television channel announced on Tuesday. "I am delighted that Boris Becker is returning to our Eurosport team at the Australian Open," said Jochen Gundel, one of the managers of the German subsidiary of Warner. Bros Discovery, the chain's parent company. "Since 2017, Boris has been an integral part of the tennis broadcasts on Eurosport." Also read: Martina Navratilova: A look at the tennis legend's records as she fights another battle The German six-time Grand Slam champion was released from prison in England last month after serving eight months of a two-and-a-half year sentence for flouting insolvency rules. Becker was found guilty of hiding £2.5 million ($3.1 million) of assets and loans to avoid paying debts. His lawyer explained that Becker, now 55, had "served his sentence" and was "not subject to any criminal restrictions in Germany". Becker will appear on Eurosport every day after the night sessions of the Australian Open which begins on January 16.

After his release from prison, Boris Becker back to work as Australian Open pundit

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;cruised through his first singles match in Australia since being deported last year with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Constant Lestienne at the Adelaide International 1 on Tuesday. The 35-year-old Serb was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban for the country, which was waived in November. After being well received by fans during a rare doubles appearance on Monday,&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;began his preparations for the Jan. 16-29 Australian Open against world number 65 Lestienne by racing through the opening set.

The 21-time Grand Slam champion turned up the heat on his French opponent with a double break to go 4-0 up in the second set before Lestienne got on the board, but&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;closed out the match in style as supporters chanted his name. "I have to say, I'm glad to be back in Australia, thank you all for coming out,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;said on court. "Thank you for giving me the welcome I could only wish for. "... If I have to pick one country where I've had the most success, which treated me in the best way in terms of tennis, it's here. I won my first Grand Slam here in 2008 and I have nine Australian Open titles - I've had some epic matches. "Australia has been the place where I play my best tennis and I look forward to coming here. The circumstances last year were as they were and it wasn't easy for anybody but I'm happy to be here, focus on tennis and enjoy my time with you guys."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/martina-navratilova-a-look-at-tennis-legends-records-as-she-fights-another-battle-549063">Martina Navratilova: A look at tennis legend's records as she fights another battle</a>

Up next for world number five&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;is another Frenchman in Quentin Halys, who beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-3 6-4. Former U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev also advanced to the second round of the ATP 250 tournament when Lorenzo Sonego retired with a right arm injury while trailing 7-6(6) 2-1. Medvedev, who lost to Rafa Nadal in last year's Melbourne Park final, saved nine set points to win the opening set. "That's actually crazy," Medvedev said. "Probably the first time in my life I've saved nine set points. "What a match to start the year. Unfortunate for everybody that it finished early in a way, even if we played one hour and 40 minutes, but happy to be through."

Medvedev will take on Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic for a quarter-final spot. Roberto Bautista-Agut stunned fifth-seed Russian Andrey Rublev 4-6 6-3 6-4 while sixth seed Jannik Sinner eased past Briton Kyle Edmund 6-3 6-2 and Denis Shapovalov overcame Australian Rinky Hijikata 2-6 6-4 6-3.

Novak Djokovic cruised through his first singles match in Australia since being deported last year with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Constant Lestienne at the Adelaide International 1 on Tuesday.

Novak Djokovic cruised through his first singles match in Australia since being deported last year with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Constant Lestienne at the Adelaide International 1 on Tuesday. The 35-year-old Serb was deported on the eve of the 2022 Australian Open for not being vaccinated against COVID-19 and received a three-year travel ban for the country, which was waived in November. After being well received by fans during a rare doubles appearance on Monday, Djokovic began his preparations for the Jan. 16-29 Australian Open against world number 65 Lestienne by racing through the opening set. The 21-time Grand Slam champion turned up the heat on his French opponent with a double break to go 4-0 up in the second set before Lestienne got on the board, but Djokovic closed out the match in style as supporters chanted his name. "I have to say, I'm glad to be back in Australia, thank you all for coming out," Djokovic said on court. "Thank you for giving me the welcome I could only wish for. "... If I have to pick one country where I've had the most success, which treated me in the best way in terms of tennis, it's here. I won my first Grand Slam here in 2008 and I have nine Australian Open titles - I've had some epic matches. "Australia has been the place where I play my best tennis and I look forward to coming here. The circumstances last year were as they were and it wasn't easy for anybody but I'm happy to be here, focus on tennis and enjoy my time with you guys." Also read: Martina Navratilova: A look at tennis legend's records as she fights another battle Up next for world number five Djokovic is another Frenchman in Quentin Halys, who beat Australian Jordan Thompson 6-3 6-4. Former U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev also advanced to the second round of the ATP 250 tournament when Lorenzo Sonego retired with a right arm injury while trailing 7-6(6) 2-1. Medvedev, who lost to Rafa Nadal in last year's Melbourne Park final, saved nine set points to win the opening set. "That's actually crazy," Medvedev said. "Probably the first time in my life I've saved nine set points. "What a match to start the year. Unfortunate for everybody that it finished early in a way, even if we played one hour and 40 minutes, but happy to be through." Medvedev will take on Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic for a quarter-final spot. Roberto Bautista-Agut stunned fifth-seed Russian Andrey Rublev 4-6 6-3 6-4 while sixth seed Jannik Sinner eased past Briton Kyle Edmund 6-3 6-2 and Denis Shapovalov overcame Australian Rinky Hijikata 2-6 6-4 6-3.

After Covid vaccination row in 2022, Novak Djokovic gets the welcome he wished for in Adelaide

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