Russia's&nbsp;Daniil Medvedev marched&nbsp;ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a&nbsp;win over Nuno Borges in the&nbsp;fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player&nbsp;Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. After this win, the world number three will now lock horns with Poland's&nbsp;Hubert Hurkacz in the quarters.&nbsp;

Talking about his clash with Borges, Medvedev started in a dominating fashion. He won the first set 6-3 and it seemed as if he would rush past his opponent. However, there were some challenges posed by Borges as the clash went ahead. Medvedev closed the second set as well, winning it 7-6 courtesy of a 7-4 lead in the tiebreaker.&nbsp;

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Medvedev was ahead in the third set as well. Just when he seemed that he would close the match soon, with a 5-3 lead, Borges stormed his way back into the contest and won the set 7-5. However, his resistance ended in the fourth and penultimate set as Medvedev -- who dominated with aces (13-5) -- won it 6-1. Overall, he was ahead of Borges in every department but would be eager to cut down on his double fault errors going ahead (11-4).&nbsp;

Medvedev, who has been the runner-up twice in the Australian Open, is eyeing his first-ever major title Down Under. He will look to keep going ahead in a similar manner as bigger challenges await the former world number one.

Russia's Daniil Medvedev marched ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a win over Nuno Borges in the fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.

Russia's Daniil Medvedev marched ahead in the Australian Open 2024 edition with a win over Nuno Borges in the fourth round on Monday (Jan 22) in Melbourne. Medvedev beat Portuguese player Borges 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 5-7, 6-1 to enter the quarter-finals of the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. After this win, the world number three will now lock horns with Poland's Hubert Hurkacz in the quarters. Talking about his clash with Borges, Medvedev started in a dominating fashion. He won the first set 6-3 and it seemed as if he would rush past his opponent. However, there were some challenges posed by Borges as the clash went ahead. Medvedev closed the second set as well, winning it 7-6 courtesy of a 7-4 lead in the tiebreaker. Also read: Qualifier Dayana Yastremska ousts Victoria Azarenka at Australian Open × Medvedev was ahead in the third set as well. Just when he seemed that he would close the match soon, with a 5-3 lead, Borges stormed his way back into the contest and won the set 7-5. However, his resistance ended in the fourth and penultimate set as Medvedev -- who dominated with aces (13-5) -- won it 6-1. Overall, he was ahead of Borges in every department but would be eager to cut down on his double fault errors going ahead (11-4). Medvedev, who has been the runner-up twice in the Australian Open, is eyeing his first-ever major title Down Under. He will look to keep going ahead in a similar manner as bigger challenges await the former world number one.

Aus Open: Daniil Medvedev marches ahead after win over Nuno Borges in fourth round

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals. This would also be Djokovic's 14th quarterfinal in the Australian Open - equalling the record of Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Aussie John Newcombe for the joint second most in tournament. The Serb is also on 32-match winning streak at the Australian Open.

The 24-time grand slam winner is chasing his 11th Australian Open title and has hit form after being a bit sluggish in the first two rounds. His campaign hit the right notes during his fourth round win against 20th seed Adrian Mannarino on Sunday (January 21). Djokovic just dropped three games to win the match 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 to enter the round of 16.

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“Today was the best day in terms of tennis, the way I felt on the court. I’m really excited to enter the second week,” said Djokovic after the win where he wanted to lose a game to get three bagels out of his mind.

"I really wanted to lose that game in the third set because the tension was building up so much in the stadium," he said, referring to the possibility of completing a rare "triple bagel".

"I just needed to get that out of the way and re-focus," said the 36-year-old Serb.

He'll next face American Taylor Fritz who has beaten Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round to enter the last 16. Djokovic has 8-0 lead against Fritz and seven of them are in straight sets. The one time Fritz stretched the game was back in 2021 at the Australian Open when they played a five-set match.

Fritz, however, is confident of giving a good fight to the Serb.

“I think a lot of these match-ups are from when I was a bit younger,” said Fritz. “Since I’ve improved, become a better player, the times I’ve played him since I just haven’t brought my best level and you need it when you compete with someone like Novak. Gonna have to serve like I did today but I feel confident if I play like I did today, then I have a chance.”

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals.

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic secured a place in the quarterfinal of the ongoing Australia Open - equalling Roger Federer's long-standing record of appearing in the 58 grand slam quarterfinals. This would also be Djokovic's 14th quarterfinal in the Australian Open - equalling the record of Spaniard Rafael Nadal and Aussie John Newcombe for the joint second most in tournament. The Serb is also on 32-match winning streak at the Australian Open. The 24-time grand slam winner is chasing his 11th Australian Open title and has hit form after being a bit sluggish in the first two rounds. His campaign hit the right notes during his fourth round win against 20th seed Adrian Mannarino on Sunday (January 21). Djokovic just dropped three games to win the match 6-0, 6-0, 6-3 to enter the round of 16. Also Read: England batter Harry Brook withdraws from upcoming India series, announces board “Today was the best day in terms of tennis, the way I felt on the court. I’m really excited to enter the second week,” said Djokovic after the win where he wanted to lose a game to get three bagels out of his mind. "I really wanted to lose that game in the third set because the tension was building up so much in the stadium," he said, referring to the possibility of completing a rare "triple bagel". "I just needed to get that out of the way and re-focus," said the 36-year-old Serb. He'll next face American Taylor Fritz who has beaten Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round to enter the last 16. Djokovic has 8-0 lead against Fritz and seven of them are in straight sets. The one time Fritz stretched the game was back in 2021 at the Australian Open when they played a five-set match. Fritz, however, is confident of giving a good fight to the Serb. “I think a lot of these match-ups are from when I was a bit younger,” said Fritz. “Since I’ve improved, become a better player, the times I’ve played him since I just haven’t brought my best level and you need it when you compete with someone like Novak. Gonna have to serve like I did today but I feel confident if I play like I did today, then I have a chance.”

Australian Open: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer’s record with fourth round win

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic.

There was little to separate them in the opening two sets but Fritz stepped up a gear to beat the Greek seventh seed 7-6 (7/3), 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 in a shade over three hours.

He said the key was "just trusting my shots" and that he had served well throughout.

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Fritz trails&nbsp;Djokovic 8-0 in head-to-heads, but he said he had improved and was relishing another battle against the top seed.

"The times I have played him I haven't brought my best level and you need to if you are going to complete with someone like Djokovic," he said.

A tight first set, in which neither player broke serve, went to a tie-break, where Fritz quickly edged ahead and did not relinquish his lead.

The second set went with serve until the 11th game, when Tsitsipas broke, going on to take the set 7-5.

Fritz broke twice in the third set to edge ahead and repeated the feat in the fourth set, winning the last four games to claim victory.

<h2>Sabalenka in quarters</h2>

Defending women's champion&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;has been in imperious form and was in complete charge against unseeded Amanda Anisimova on Margaret Court Arena, sweeping past the American 6-3, 6-2.

Fourth seed Coco Gauff, attempting to become the first woman to back up a US Open title with a Grand Slam win in Australia since Naomi Osaka in 2018-19, has been almost as impressive.

She swatted aside Poland's unseeded Magdalena Frech 6-1, 6-2 in just 63 minutes on Rod Laver Arena, with the 85-year-tennis legend watching from the stands.

"It was an honour to play in front of you, so thank you for coming to my match," said 19-year-old Gauff, who had never progressed beyond the fourth round at Melbourne Park in four previous attempts.

"First Aussie quarter-final. Super happy to be in this position and be here.... It's cool to get over that hump."

She will next meet Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk, who beat Russian qualifier Maria Timofeeva 6-2, 6-1.

With seven of the women's top 10 seeds knocked out in the first week, including world number one Iga Swiatek, both Gauff and&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;have a glorious chance to win their second major major title.

They are on the same side of the draw and will not meet in the final, with a potential last-four clash looming instead.

Sabalenka&nbsp;has dropped just 11 games in four matches and is favoured to win another title to go with her breakthrough Grand Slam crown last year.

Should she go all the way, the 25-year-old will be the first woman to retain the title since compatriot Victoria Azarenka completed the feat in 2013.

"I'm getting stronger because I enjoy the atmosphere and I really want to stay here as long as I can till the very last day," she said.

Her next opponent will be unseeded Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva or ninth seed Barbora Krejcikova.

If Andreeva keeps her dream run going, she will become the youngest woman to reach the Melbourne Park quarter-finals since Martina Hingis in 1997, a player she has often been compared to.

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic.

American 12th seed Taylor Fritz dumped last year's Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas out of the tournament on Sunday to set up a quarter-final with defending champion Novak Djokovic. There was little to separate them in the opening two sets but Fritz stepped up a gear to beat the Greek seventh seed 7-6 (7/3), 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 in a shade over three hours. He said the key was "just trusting my shots" and that he had served well throughout. Also Read: Novak Djokovic thrashes 20th seed Adrian Mannarino in straight sets to book QF berth Fritz trails Djokovic 8-0 in head-to-heads, but he said he had improved and was relishing another battle against the top seed. "The times I have played him I haven't brought my best level and you need to if you are going to complete with someone like Djokovic," he said. A tight first set, in which neither player broke serve, went to a tie-break, where Fritz quickly edged ahead and did not relinquish his lead. The second set went with serve until the 11th game, when Tsitsipas broke, going on to take the set 7-5. Fritz broke twice in the third set to edge ahead and repeated the feat in the fourth set, winning the last four games to claim victory. Sabalenka in quarters Defending women's champion Sabalenka has been in imperious form and was in complete charge against unseeded Amanda Anisimova on Margaret Court Arena, sweeping past the American 6-3, 6-2. Fourth seed Coco Gauff, attempting to become the first woman to back up a US Open title with a Grand Slam win in Australia since Naomi Osaka in 2018-19, has been almost as impressive. She swatted aside Poland's unseeded Magdalena Frech 6-1, 6-2 in just 63 minutes on Rod Laver Arena, with the 85-year-tennis legend watching from the stands. "It was an honour to play in front of you, so thank you for coming to my match," said 19-year-old Gauff, who had never progressed beyond the fourth round at Melbourne Park in four previous attempts. "First Aussie quarter-final. Super happy to be in this position and be here.... It's cool to get over that hump." She will next meet Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk, who beat Russian qualifier Maria Timofeeva 6-2, 6-1. With seven of the women's top 10 seeds knocked out in the first week, including world number one Iga Swiatek, both Gauff and Sabalenka have a glorious chance to win their second major major title. They are on the same side of the draw and will not meet in the final, with a potential last-four clash looming instead. Sabalenka has dropped just 11 games in four matches and is favoured to win another title to go with her breakthrough Grand Slam crown last year. Should she go all the way, the 25-year-old will be the first woman to retain the title since compatriot Victoria Azarenka completed the feat in 2013. "I'm getting stronger because I enjoy the atmosphere and I really want to stay here as long as I can till the very last day," she said. Her next opponent will be unseeded Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva or ninth seed Barbora Krejcikova. If Andreeva keeps her dream run going, she will become the youngest woman to reach the Melbourne Park quarter-finals since Martina Hingis in 1997, a player she has often been compared to.

Australian Open: Taylor Fritz downs Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up quarterfinal against Novak Djokovic

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The Serb, one of the most decorated players of the game with 24 grand slam&nbsp;titles, shared the thoughts after being asked to reflect on his career as a newcomer.

"I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning," he said at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. "I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favourite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world."&nbsp;

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"I was confident, and I felt like I have the game to back it up. Obviously on the court a lot of things can happen in a kind of heat of a battle. It was a very long time ago now, 20 years since I made my first debut I think on the professional tour. It's really hard to say who liked me more or less." added Djokovic.

Federer, considered one of the tennis greats of all time, retired with 20 grand slam titles. The Swiss and the Serb played 50 times with Federer winning 23 times while Djokovic managing 27 wins. Djokovic, along with Spain's Rafael Nadal (22 grand slam titles) and Federer, makes the Big Three of tennis.&nbsp;

Currently, Djokovic is chasing his record-breaking 25th grand slam title and 11th Australia Open. He started out patchy in the tournament but has now raced back to his best as visible in his straight set victory over Etcheverry.&nbsp;

Djokovic next plays against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the round of 16 on Sunday (Jan 21).

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has shared that retired Swiss player Roger Federer didn't like him early in his career. Djokovic made the comments after his victory in the Australia Open third round on January 19 over Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The Serb, one of the most decorated players of the game with 24 grand slam titles, shared the thoughts after being asked to reflect on his career as a newcomer. "I know certainly Federer didn't like the way I was behaving at the beginning," he said at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. "I think it didn't sit with him well. I don't know about the others. I guess I wasn't the favourite type of guy to some of the top guys because I was not afraid to say that I want to be the best player in the world." Also Read: Australian Open: Top-seed Iga Swiatek crashes out after defeat against Czech teenager "I was confident, and I felt like I have the game to back it up. Obviously on the court a lot of things can happen in a kind of heat of a battle. It was a very long time ago now, 20 years since I made my first debut I think on the professional tour. It's really hard to say who liked me more or less." added Djokovic. Federer, considered one of the tennis greats of all time, retired with 20 grand slam titles. The Swiss and the Serb played 50 times with Federer winning 23 times while Djokovic managing 27 wins. Djokovic, along with Spain's Rafael Nadal (22 grand slam titles) and Federer, makes the Big Three of tennis. Currently, Djokovic is chasing his record-breaking 25th grand slam title and 11th Australia Open. He started out patchy in the tournament but has now raced back to his best as visible in his straight set victory over Etcheverry. Djokovic next plays against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the round of 16 on Sunday (Jan 21).

Novak Djokovic reveals Roger Federer ‘didn’t like him’ early in his career

Carlos Alcaraz sent a chilling warning to his Australian Open rivals on Saturday, outclassing Shang Juncheng before the Chinese teenager was forced to retire.

A day after defending champion Novak Djokovic returned to top form, world number two Alcaraz laid down a marker in a lopsided third-round contest lasting just 66 minutes.

The 20-year-old, playing a tour-level match against a player younger than himself for the first time in his career, was leading 6-1, 6-1, 1-0 when his 18-year-old opponent had to pull out.

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Shang entered the match on Rod Laver Arena with his upper right thigh strapped and received treatment on the injury during the second set.&nbsp;

Dominant Alcaraz did not face a single break point to set up a last-16 meeting with&nbsp;Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic, who saved two match points to beat last year's semi-finalist&nbsp;Tommy Paul&nbsp;6-4, 3-6, 2-6, 7-6(9/7), 6-0.

The Spanish second seed is vying with Djokovic for the number one ranking and if they both reach the final it will double as a straight shootout for the top spot.

Alcaraz, who missed last year's tournament at Melbourne Park with an injury, said it was "not the way anybody wants to move on" after the injury to Shang.

"I missed the tournament last year," he said. "I was watching the matches at home from the couch, wishing to play in the second week here."

"This is the first time I have moved to the second week in Australia. It feels special."

In other action on Saturday, women's 12th seed Zheng Qinwen said she was inspired by Chinese great Li Na's win in the 2014 final after she beat compatriot Wang Yafan 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (10/8).

"That final I have watched it more than 10 times, so I have a lot of memories," she said.

"I mean, she was an unbelievable player, the first Asian woman who won the Grand Slam. How can you not remember that."

Men's ninth seed Hubert Hurkacz progressed but former US Open champion Sloane Stephens was beaten by Russia's Anna Kalinskaya.

<h2>Swiatek's 18-match winning streak</h2>

Top women's seed Swiatek is on an 18-match winning run, but she had to dig deep to see off former finalist Danielle Collins in the second round.

On her days off she has witnessed defending champion Aryna Sabalenka pummel her three opponents into submission, for the loss of just six games in total.

The 22-year-old will be keen for a statement win against unseeded Czech Linda Noskova to confirm that she is the player to beat as she hunts a fifth Grand Slam title.

Swiatek, who faced former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin in the first round, said her draw was "like the toughest one I ever had".

But she believes she could benefit from her baptism of fire in Melbourne.

"I don't mind actually that it was intense because I remember also when I started the tournament with some easy matches, then I felt I was a little bit rusty when the tough moments came," she said.

Men's third seed Daniil Medvedev is back on court after his gruelling five-set encounter with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori, which finished at 3:40 am on Friday.

The Russian, a two-time finalist in Melbourne, faces a potentially tough assignment against Canadian 27th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime, while sixth seed Alexander Zverev takes on unseeded American Alex Michelsen.

Carlos Alcaraz sent a chilling warning to his Australian Open rivals on Saturday, outclassing Shang Juncheng before the Chinese teenager was forced to retire. A day after defending champion Novak Djokovic returned to top form, world number two Alcaraz laid down a marker in a lopsided third-round contest lasting just 66 minutes.

Carlos Alcaraz sent a chilling warning to his Australian Open rivals on Saturday, outclassing Shang Juncheng before the Chinese teenager was forced to retire. A day after defending champion Novak Djokovic returned to top form, world number two Alcaraz laid down a marker in a lopsided third-round contest lasting just 66 minutes. The 20-year-old, playing a tour-level match against a player younger than himself for the first time in his career, was leading 6-1, 6-1, 1-0 when his 18-year-old opponent had to pull out. Also Read: Teenager Mirra Andreeva reacts to Andy Murray's tweet of appreciation after win over Diane Parry Shang entered the match on Rod Laver Arena with his upper right thigh strapped and received treatment on the injury during the second set. Dominant Alcaraz did not face a single break point to set up a last-16 meeting with Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic, who saved two match points to beat last year's semi-finalist Tommy Paul 6-4, 3-6, 2-6, 7-6(9/7), 6-0. The Spanish second seed is vying with Djokovic for the number one ranking and if they both reach the final it will double as a straight shootout for the top spot. Alcaraz, who missed last year's tournament at Melbourne Park with an injury, said it was "not the way anybody wants to move on" after the injury to Shang. "I missed the tournament last year," he said. "I was watching the matches at home from the couch, wishing to play in the second week here." "This is the first time I have moved to the second week in Australia. It feels special." In other action on Saturday, women's 12th seed Zheng Qinwen said she was inspired by Chinese great Li Na's win in the 2014 final after she beat compatriot Wang Yafan 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (10/8). "That final I have watched it more than 10 times, so I have a lot of memories," she said. "I mean, she was an unbelievable player, the first Asian woman who won the Grand Slam. How can you not remember that." Men's ninth seed Hubert Hurkacz progressed but former US Open champion Sloane Stephens was beaten by Russia's Anna Kalinskaya. Swiatek's 18-match winning streak Top women's seed Swiatek is on an 18-match winning run, but she had to dig deep to see off former finalist Danielle Collins in the second round. On her days off she has witnessed defending champion Aryna Sabalenka pummel her three opponents into submission, for the loss of just six games in total. The 22-year-old will be keen for a statement win against unseeded Czech Linda Noskova to confirm that she is the player to beat as she hunts a fifth Grand Slam title. Swiatek, who faced former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin in the first round, said her draw was "like the toughest one I ever had". But she believes she could benefit from her baptism of fire in Melbourne. "I don't mind actually that it was intense because I remember also when I started the tournament with some easy matches, then I felt I was a little bit rusty when the tough moments came," she said. Men's third seed Daniil Medvedev is back on court after his gruelling five-set encounter with Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori, which finished at 3:40 am on Friday. The Russian, a two-time finalist in Melbourne, faces a potentially tough assignment against Canadian 27th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime, while sixth seed Alexander Zverev takes on unseeded American Alex Michelsen.

Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz storms into last 16, sets up clash with Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic

World number one Iga Swiatek's 18-match winning run came to a shuddering halt at the Australian Open on Saturday when she was dumped out in the third round by unseeded Czech teen Linda Noskova.

The Polish top seed appeared en route to the last 16 after taking the first set but lost her way, going down 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and 20 minutes to the world number 50.

Just three of the top 10 women's seeds remain in the draw in Melbourne at the end of the first week.

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"I'm speechless," said Noskova, who is at her first Australian Open. "I knew it was going to be an amazing match, but I didn't really think it would end up like this."

"I'm just really glad to get through."

Swiatek, 22, who produced a stunning second-round comeback to beat former finalist Danielle Collins, broke in the sixth game and went on to take the first set in 43 minutes.

Both women faced pressure on their serves in a tight second set and fended off break points until the eighth game, when Noskova broke to love to lead 5-3 before serving out.

Swiatek cracked in the third game of the decider, putting herself in deep trouble, but she hit back immediately after speaking with her coaching team on court.

But she came under pressure on her serve again, saving another break point to edge ahead 3-2.

That proved a temporary stay of execution as she netted with a forehand in the seventh game to give Noskova another break for a 4-3 lead and she held serve for 5-3.

Swiatek held her own serve and then won the first two points as Noskova served for the match. But the Czech player kept her head, producing an ace to set up match point and sealing the deal.

Noskova will face either Ukrainian 19th seed Elina Svitolina or Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic next.

World number one Iga Swiatek's 18-match winning run came to a shuddering halt at the Australian Open on Saturday when she was dumped out in the third round by unseeded Czech teen Linda Noskova.

World number one Iga Swiatek's 18-match winning run came to a shuddering halt at the Australian Open on Saturday when she was dumped out in the third round by unseeded Czech teen Linda Noskova. The Polish top seed appeared en route to the last 16 after taking the first set but lost her way, going down 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and 20 minutes to the world number 50. Just three of the top 10 women's seeds remain in the draw in Melbourne at the end of the first week. Also Read: Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz storms into last 16 "I'm speechless," said Noskova, who is at her first Australian Open. "I knew it was going to be an amazing match, but I didn't really think it would end up like this." "I'm just really glad to get through." Swiatek, 22, who produced a stunning second-round comeback to beat former finalist Danielle Collins, broke in the sixth game and went on to take the first set in 43 minutes. Both women faced pressure on their serves in a tight second set and fended off break points until the eighth game, when Noskova broke to love to lead 5-3 before serving out. Swiatek cracked in the third game of the decider, putting herself in deep trouble, but she hit back immediately after speaking with her coaching team on court. But she came under pressure on her serve again, saving another break point to edge ahead 3-2. That proved a temporary stay of execution as she netted with a forehand in the seventh game to give Noskova another break for a 4-3 lead and she held serve for 5-3. Swiatek held her own serve and then won the first two points as Noskova served for the match. But the Czech player kept her head, producing an ace to set up match point and sealing the deal. Noskova will face either Ukrainian 19th seed Elina Svitolina or Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic next.

Australian Open: Top-seed Iga Swiatek crashes out after losing to Czech teenager Linda Noskova

The 16-year-old Russian tennis prodigy, Mirra Andreeva made heads turn with her stunning come-from-behind win over France's Diane&nbsp;Parry in the third round of the Australian Open on Friday (Jan 19). Trailing 1-5 in the third and final set, the teenager rose to the occasion and produced a comeback for the ages. She saved a match point at 2-5 before winning&nbsp;1-6, 6-1, 7-6 (5). Following her stunning victory, Andreeva received a huge compliment from three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray.&nbsp;

Murray took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, to laud Andreeva. He&nbsp;wrote, "Andreeva down 5-1 in third. Commentator “she really needs to work on mental side of her game.. she’s too hard on herself when she’s losing” 30 minutes later 7-6 Andreeva wins. Maybe the reason she turned the match round is because of her mental strength. Maybe she turned the match around because she is hard on herself and demands more of herself when she’s losing/playing badly? Winner."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-jannik-sinner-storms-past-sebastian-baez-into-fourth-round-681508">Australian Open 2024: Jannik Sinner storms past Sebastian Baez into fourth round</a>

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Andreeva reacted to receiving such a big compliment from Murray -- who bowed out in the first round -- and&nbsp;said she would frame the tweet and hang it on her wall.

<h2>'I will&nbsp;print it out somehow. I don't know, I will put it in a frame'</h2>

After the win, the 16-year-old teenager said, "I didn't really think that he (Murray) would watch a match, then after he would tweet, he would comment something." She added, "Honestly, I will try to print it out somehow. I don't know, I will put it in a frame. I will bring it everywhere with me. I will maybe put it on the wall so I can see it every day."

Andreeva had earlier&nbsp;thrashed former world number two Ons Jabeur&nbsp;(6-0, 6-2) in her second round clash. Against Parry, she held her nerves and displayed&nbsp;her talent, and&nbsp;emotions, on the court to claim a hard-fought match; lasting over two hours. The Russian has&nbsp;become only the fourth woman to make it to the second week of Wimbledon and Australian Open as a teenager. She will take a lot of confidence from her latest win, and Murray's words of appreciation, going into the fourth round.&nbsp;

Andreeva's fourth-round clash will be held at the Melbourne Park on Sunday (Jan 21).&nbsp;

The 16-year-old Russian tennis prodigy, Mirra Andreeva made heads turn with her stunning come-from-behind win over France's Diane Parry in the third round of the Australian Open on Friday (Jan 19).

The 16-year-old Russian tennis prodigy, Mirra Andreeva made heads turn with her stunning come-from-behind win over France's Diane Parry in the third round of the Australian Open on Friday (Jan 19). Trailing 1-5 in the third and final set, the teenager rose to the occasion and produced a comeback for the ages. She saved a match point at 2-5 before winning 1-6, 6-1, 7-6 (5). Following her stunning victory, Andreeva received a huge compliment from three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray. Murray took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, to laud Andreeva. He wrote, "Andreeva down 5-1 in third. Commentator “she really needs to work on mental side of her game.. she’s too hard on herself when she’s losing” 30 minutes later 7-6 Andreeva wins. Maybe the reason she turned the match round is because of her mental strength. Maybe she turned the match around because she is hard on herself and demands more of herself when she’s losing/playing badly? Winner." Also read: Australian Open 2024: Jannik Sinner storms past Sebastian Baez into fourth round × Andreeva reacted to receiving such a big compliment from Murray -- who bowed out in the first round -- and said she would frame the tweet and hang it on her wall. 'I will print it out somehow. I don't know, I will put it in a frame' After the win, the 16-year-old teenager said, "I didn't really think that he (Murray) would watch a match, then after he would tweet, he would comment something." She added, "Honestly, I will try to print it out somehow. I don't know, I will put it in a frame. I will bring it everywhere with me. I will maybe put it on the wall so I can see it every day." Andreeva had earlier thrashed former world number two Ons Jabeur (6-0, 6-2) in her second round clash. Against Parry, she held her nerves and displayed her talent, and emotions, on the court to claim a hard-fought match; lasting over two hours. The Russian has become only the fourth woman to make it to the second week of Wimbledon and Australian Open as a teenager. She will take a lot of confidence from her latest win, and Murray's words of appreciation, going into the fourth round. Andreeva's fourth-round clash will be held at the Melbourne Park on Sunday (Jan 21).

Aus Open: Teenager Mirra Andreeva reacts to Andy Murray's tweet of appreciation after win over Diane Parry

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday. The clean-hitting Italian banged down six aces and 34 winners to see off the Argentine 26th seed in less than two hours in cool and blustery conditions on Margaret Court Arena, sealing the deal with a seventh break of serve.

The 22-year-old was the hottest player on tour at the end of last season and led Italy to a first Davis Cup triumph in late November to conclude the season. His decision to extend his holiday and skip the warm-up tournaments ahead of the year's first Grand Slam raised some eyebrows, but Sinner felt it had been vindicated by his form in the first three rounds in Melbourne.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-sabalenka-refuses-to-shake-hands-with-ukraines-tsurenko-after-third-round-win-681405">Australian Open 2024: Sabalenka refuses to shake hands with Ukraine's Tsurenko after third-round win</a>

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"In general, I feel really great here," Sinner said. "I'm really happy with how I'm feeling right now. "Obviously matches are a little bit different (from training) and let's see how I react in the next rounds, but at the moment I'm going well."

Sinner's best run at the Australian Open was a place in the quarter-finals in 2022, and the odds will favour him getting back to the last eight with Karen Khachanov his opponent in the fourth round. The Italian has won the last two of his three meetings with the Russian 15th seed with the only loss coming at the 2020 U.S. Open when he was still a teenager.

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday.

Fourth seed Jannik Sinner underlined his title credentials by racing into the second week of the Australian Open without dropping a set after a 6-0 6-1 6-3 demolition of Sebastian Baez in the third round on Friday. The clean-hitting Italian banged down six aces and 34 winners to see off the Argentine 26th seed in less than two hours in cool and blustery conditions on Margaret Court Arena, sealing the deal with a seventh break of serve. The 22-year-old was the hottest player on tour at the end of last season and led Italy to a first Davis Cup triumph in late November to conclude the season. His decision to extend his holiday and skip the warm-up tournaments ahead of the year's first Grand Slam raised some eyebrows, but Sinner felt it had been vindicated by his form in the first three rounds in Melbourne. Also read: Australian Open 2024: Sabalenka refuses to shake hands with Ukraine's Tsurenko after third-round win × "In general, I feel really great here," Sinner said. "I'm really happy with how I'm feeling right now. "Obviously matches are a little bit different (from training) and let's see how I react in the next rounds, but at the moment I'm going well." Sinner's best run at the Australian Open was a place in the quarter-finals in 2022, and the odds will favour him getting back to the last eight with Karen Khachanov his opponent in the fourth round. The Italian has won the last two of his three meetings with the Russian 15th seed with the only loss coming at the 2020 U.S. Open when he was still a teenager.

Australian Open 2024: Jannik Sinner storms past Sebastian Baez into fourth round

Former world number seven and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins announced she would be retiring this season after a close second-round loss to world number one Iga Swiatek at Melbourne Park on Thursday. The 30-year-old American, who had a 4-1 lead in the deciding set but went down 6-4 3-6 6-4 to the four-times Grand Slam champion, said she was sick of the travel and wanted to have a family.

"This is going to be my last season, actually, competing," Collins told reporters after racing off Rod Laver Arena and straight into her press conference. "I don't really know exactly when, but this will be my last season and I'm really looking forward to that."

Her peak ranking of seventh in the world came in 2022 after she had beaten Swiatek in the semi-finals at Melbourne Park before going on to lose to Ash Barty in the final. She also reached the semi-finals in Melbourne in 2019 and the quarter-finals of the French Open the following year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-zverev-avoids-shock-upset-by-qualifier-klein-swiatek-overcomes-stiff-challenge-from-collins-681110">Aus Open: Zverev avoids shock upset by qualifier Klein, Swiatek overcomes stiff challenge from Collins</a>

"I feel like I've had a pretty good career. There has certainly been ups and downs to it, and I think the travel and some of the things away from the court with scheduling and all of that, this is a really tough sport," Collins told reporters. "I have other things that I'd kind of like to accomplish in my life outside of tennis, and would like to be able to kind of, you know, be able to have the time to be able to do that. Obviously having kids is a big priority for me."

Collins said she was proud of taking Swiatek so close on Thursday and that losing did not sting as much as it had earlier in her career. "I feel like I have kind of gotten to the point where obviously they matter and, you know, my career means a lot to me, but the end of the day, you know, you either win or you lose, and that's all there is to it," she said.

Former world number seven and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins announced she would be retiring this season after a close second-round loss to world number one Iga Swiatek at Melbourne Park on Thursday.

Former world number seven and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins announced she would be retiring this season after a close second-round loss to world number one Iga Swiatek at Melbourne Park on Thursday. The 30-year-old American, who had a 4-1 lead in the deciding set but went down 6-4 3-6 6-4 to the four-times Grand Slam champion, said she was sick of the travel and wanted to have a family. "This is going to be my last season, actually, competing," Collins told reporters after racing off Rod Laver Arena and straight into her press conference. "I don't really know exactly when, but this will be my last season and I'm really looking forward to that." Her peak ranking of seventh in the world came in 2022 after she had beaten Swiatek in the semi-finals at Melbourne Park before going on to lose to Ash Barty in the final. She also reached the semi-finals in Melbourne in 2019 and the quarter-finals of the French Open the following year. Also read: Aus Open: Zverev avoids shock upset by qualifier Klein, Swiatek overcomes stiff challenge from Collins "I feel like I've had a pretty good career. There has certainly been ups and downs to it, and I think the travel and some of the things away from the court with scheduling and all of that, this is a really tough sport," Collins told reporters. "I have other things that I'd kind of like to accomplish in my life outside of tennis, and would like to be able to kind of, you know, be able to have the time to be able to do that. Obviously having kids is a big priority for me." Collins said she was proud of taking Swiatek so close on Thursday and that losing did not sting as much as it had earlier in her career. "I feel like I have kind of gotten to the point where obviously they matter and, you know, my career means a lot to me, but the end of the day, you know, you either win or you lose, and that's all there is to it," she said.

Aus Open: Former world number seven Danielle Collins announces impending retirement after second-round loss

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev survived an almighty scare at the Australian Open on Thursday as the former semi-finalist dug deep to beat Slovakian qualifier Lukas Klein 7-5 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 7-6(7) and move into the third round. Rain forced the 4-1/2-hour contest to be completed under the roof on John Cain Arena and Zverev found himself in huge trouble as world number 163 Klein turned up the pressure after losing the opening set to take the next two.

"I would have much rather won in an hour-and-a-half but what can I do," Zverev said. "He played incredible, was hitting every ball as hard as he could from both sides. I didn't really know what to do a lot of the times. "To be honest, he probably deserved to win more than me. That's how tennis goes sometimes. I'm happy that I'm through but his ranking is no value to how he's playing."

The 25-year-old Klein, whose only previous Grand Slam main draw appearance was at Wimbledon in 2022, was inching towards his first career top-10 win but squandered the chance to break at 4-4 in the fourth set, much to Zverev's relief. "I was thinking there's a Qantas flight at 11 p.m. tonight straight to Dubai and then one to home," Zverev said, adding that he was just a spectator much of the time as Klein reeled off the winners, finishing with 80 in total. "I was playing but the match was his hands, he was playing winners or he was missing ... I'm extremely happy to be honest."

But Klein also made 83 unforced errors, compared to only 36 from Zverev, and that proved to be the difference. Zverev levelled the contest as Klein frittered away a 3-1 lead in the tie-break and the 26-year-old German swapped breaks with his opponent early in the decider before holding his nerve in a tie-break to prevail. "Now I'm in the third round," said Zverev, who will next face American Alex Michelsen. "It's about recovering and being out here on court because that's what I love to do."

In addition, even&nbsp;Norway's Casper Ruud struggled in a see-saw match against local hope Max Purcell, ultimately winning 6-3 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 7-6(7) in his second round in the men's draw.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-novak-djokovic-enters-third-round-with-hard-fought-win-over-alexei-popyrin-680918">Australian Open: Defending champion Novak Djokovic enters third round with hard-fought win over Alexei Popyrin</a>

WORLD NO. 1 SWIATEK ALSO SURVIVES A SCARE

World number one Iga Swiatek battled back from two breaks down in the final set to beat Danielle Collins 6-4 3-6 6-4 on Thursday (January 18) and reach the third round of the Australian Open for the fifth successive year. Collins might be ranked 62nd in the world but has a good record at Melbourne Park and beat Swiatek in the semi-finals two years ago before going on to lose to Ash Barty in the title-decider.

Four-times Grand Slam champion Swiatek has an excellent record against lower-ranked players but really had to dig deep into her reserves to overcome Collins in a dramatic but scrappy three-hour contest on Rod Laver Arena. The 30-year-old Collins faltered in her serve at key moments in the match and Swiatek found her best tennis late in the decisive set to move onto a third-round clash with Czech Linda Noskova.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev survived an almighty scare at the Australian Open on Thursday as the former semi-finalist dug deep to beat Slovakian qualifier Lukas Klein 7-5 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 7-6(7) and move into the third round.

Sixth seed Alexander Zverev survived an almighty scare at the Australian Open on Thursday as the former semi-finalist dug deep to beat Slovakian qualifier Lukas Klein 7-5 3-6 4-6 7-6(5) 7-6(7) and move into the third round. Rain forced the 4-1/2-hour contest to be completed under the roof on John Cain Arena and Zverev found himself in huge trouble as world number 163 Klein turned up the pressure after losing the opening set to take the next two. "I would have much rather won in an hour-and-a-half but what can I do," Zverev said. "He played incredible, was hitting every ball as hard as he could from both sides. I didn't really know what to do a lot of the times. "To be honest, he probably deserved to win more than me. That's how tennis goes sometimes. I'm happy that I'm through but his ranking is no value to how he's playing." The 25-year-old Klein, whose only previous Grand Slam main draw appearance was at Wimbledon in 2022, was inching towards his first career top-10 win but squandered the chance to break at 4-4 in the fourth set, much to Zverev's relief. "I was thinking there's a Qantas flight at 11 p.m. tonight straight to Dubai and then one to home," Zverev said, adding that he was just a spectator much of the time as Klein reeled off the winners, finishing with 80 in total. "I was playing but the match was his hands, he was playing winners or he was missing ... I'm extremely happy to be honest." But Klein also made 83 unforced errors, compared to only 36 from Zverev, and that proved to be the difference. Zverev levelled the contest as Klein frittered away a 3-1 lead in the tie-break and the 26-year-old German swapped breaks with his opponent early in the decider before holding his nerve in a tie-break to prevail. "Now I'm in the third round," said Zverev, who will next face American Alex Michelsen. "It's about recovering and being out here on court because that's what I love to do." In addition, even Norway's Casper Ruud struggled in a see-saw match against local hope Max Purcell, ultimately winning 6-3 6-7(5) 6-3 3-6 7-6(7) in his second round in the men's draw. Also read: Australian Open: Defending champion Novak Djokovic enters third round with hard-fought win over Alexei Popyrin WORLD NO. 1 SWIATEK ALSO SURVIVES A SCARE World number one Iga Swiatek battled back from two breaks down in the final set to beat Danielle Collins 6-4 3-6 6-4 on Thursday (January 18) and reach the third round of the Australian Open for the fifth successive year. Collins might be ranked 62nd in the world but has a good record at Melbourne Park and beat Swiatek in the semi-finals two years ago before going on to lose to Ash Barty in the title-decider. Four-times Grand Slam champion Swiatek has an excellent record against lower-ranked players but really had to dig deep into her reserves to overcome Collins in a dramatic but scrappy three-hour contest on Rod Laver Arena. The 30-year-old Collins faltered in her serve at key moments in the match and Swiatek found her best tennis late in the decisive set to move onto a third-round clash with Czech Linda Noskova.

Aus Open: Zverev avoids shock upset by qualifier Klein, Swiatek overcomes stiff challenge from Collins

Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal lost his second-round Australian Open 2024 match against the 18-year-old Chinese player Juncheng Shang 6-2, 3-6, 5-7, 4-6 on Thursday.

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What an atmosphere on Court 13! 
 
Jungcheng Shang advances to the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career, defeating a gallant Sumit Nagal 2-6 6-3 7-5 6-4 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/GM3AyqUk0W">pic.twitter.com/GM3AyqUk0W</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1747908471276831215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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After advancing to the main draw of the Australian Open by winning three qualifying matches without dropping a set, Nagal defeated seeded 27th player Alexander Bublik in the first round, becoming the first Indian player in over a decade to advance to the second round at AO.

The upbeat India star looked determined to further create history by cruising into the third round but had a stern challenge from the Chinese teenager during the second round. After breaking Shang’s serve in the first game of the first set, Nagal never allowed him to take control of the proceedings, winning the first set easily 6-2 and taking an early lead.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-2024-carlos-alcaraz-battles-past-italys-lorenzo-sonega-to-reach-round-3-681175">Aus Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz battles past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega to reach Round 3</a>

Just when he appeared to dominate the second set, as he did during his first-round clash against Bublik, Shang upped his game by minimising his errors and starting to find the court’s corners more often. It pressurised Nagal, who lagged with his wait-and-watch game plan.

The Chinese star emerged victorious in the second set, winning 6-3. Shang continued to dominate with his strong serve, not allowing the unseeded India star to settle. As both held their ground, winning their games, respectively, the game-changing moment came during the penultimate game, when Shang broke Nagal’s serve, taking an important lead in the game, winning it 7-5.

The final set reflected Shang’s power, as Nagal looked tired in his approach, with his unforced errors increasing.&nbsp;

Shang’s strong serve was good for Nagal, who lost the final set 4-6, thus going down in a four-set tie.&nbsp;

Shang will next face Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz at the Rod Laver Arena in the third-round match.

Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal lost his second-round Australian Open 2024 match against the 18-year-old Chinese player Juncheng Shang 6-2, 3-6, 5-7, 4-6 on Thursday.

Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal lost his second-round Australian Open 2024 match against the 18-year-old Chinese player Juncheng Shang 6-2, 3-6, 5-7, 4-6 on Thursday. What an atmosphere on Court 13! Jungcheng Shang advances to the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career, defeating a gallant Sumit Nagal 2-6 6-3 7-5 6-4 🙌#AusOpen #AO2024 pic.twitter.com/GM3AyqUk0W — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2024 × After advancing to the main draw of the Australian Open by winning three qualifying matches without dropping a set, Nagal defeated seeded 27th player Alexander Bublik in the first round, becoming the first Indian player in over a decade to advance to the second round at AO. The upbeat India star looked determined to further create history by cruising into the third round but had a stern challenge from the Chinese teenager during the second round. After breaking Shang’s serve in the first game of the first set, Nagal never allowed him to take control of the proceedings, winning the first set easily 6-2 and taking an early lead. ALSO READ: Aus Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz battles past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega to reach Round 3 Just when he appeared to dominate the second set, as he did during his first-round clash against Bublik, Shang upped his game by minimising his errors and starting to find the court’s corners more often. It pressurised Nagal, who lagged with his wait-and-watch game plan. The Chinese star emerged victorious in the second set, winning 6-3. Shang continued to dominate with his strong serve, not allowing the unseeded India star to settle. As both held their ground, winning their games, respectively, the game-changing moment came during the penultimate game, when Shang broke Nagal’s serve, taking an important lead in the game, winning it 7-5. The final set reflected Shang’s power, as Nagal looked tired in his approach, with his unforced errors increasing. Shang’s strong serve was good for Nagal, who lost the final set 4-6, thus going down in a four-set tie. Shang will next face Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz at the Rod Laver Arena in the third-round match.

India’s Sumit Nagal loses to Chinese teenager in second round of Australian Open 2024

On Thursday (Jan 18), Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz battled past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega in the second round of the men's singles to proceed ahead. Now, Alcaraz will face Chinese teenager Shang Juncheng in the third round, who beat Indian star Sumit Nagal. It wasn't an easy game for Alcaraz who was given a run for his money in a pulsatingn affair at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Nonetheless, the Spanish star held his own to overcome the challenge and go ahead by virtue of a 6-4, 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) scoreline.

Talking about the contest, Alcaraz started off on an expected note. He won the first set 6-4. However, it wasn't easy going for him from thereon. His Italian opponent Sonega showed a lot of energy on court and pocketed the second set in the tiebreaker, winnnig 7-6 (7-3). The third set saw Alcaraz rise up to the challenge and winning it 6-3 as Sonega lost the gained momentum. In the fourth and penultimate set, the competition intensified once again as it went to the tiebreaker where Alcaraz had the last laugh.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-zverev-avoids-shock-upset-by-qualifier-klein-swiatek-overcomes-stiff-challenge-from-collins-681110">Aus Open: Zverev avoids shock upset by qualifier Klein, Swiatek overcomes stiff challenge from Collins</a>

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It was an evenly-contested affair where Alcaraz made a mark with his aces (12-10) but Sonega gave him a tough run in terms of service (98-93) and games&nbsp;(21-18) points won. Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles under his belt, will now square off with Juncheng. The Chinese teenager entered the third round with an impressive win over Nagal, winning&nbsp;2-6, 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.&nbsp;

On Thursday (Jan 18), Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz battled past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega in the second round of the men's singles to proceed ahead. Now, Alcaraz will face Chinese teenager Shang Juncheng in the third round, who beat Indian star Sumit Nagal.

On Thursday (Jan 18), Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz battled past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega in the second round of the men's singles to proceed ahead. Now, Alcaraz will face Chinese teenager Shang Juncheng in the third round, who beat Indian star Sumit Nagal. It wasn't an easy game for Alcaraz who was given a run for his money in a pulsatingn affair at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park. Nonetheless, the Spanish star held his own to overcome the challenge and go ahead by virtue of a 6-4, 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) scoreline. Talking about the contest, Alcaraz started off on an expected note. He won the first set 6-4. However, it wasn't easy going for him from thereon. His Italian opponent Sonega showed a lot of energy on court and pocketed the second set in the tiebreaker, winnnig 7-6 (7-3). The third set saw Alcaraz rise up to the challenge and winning it 6-3 as Sonega lost the gained momentum. In the fourth and penultimate set, the competition intensified once again as it went to the tiebreaker where Alcaraz had the last laugh. Also read: Aus Open: Zverev avoids shock upset by qualifier Klein, Swiatek overcomes stiff challenge from Collins × It was an evenly-contested affair where Alcaraz made a mark with his aces (12-10) but Sonega gave him a tough run in terms of service (98-93) and games (21-18) points won. Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles under his belt, will now square off with Juncheng. The Chinese teenager entered the third round with an impressive win over Nagal, winning 2-6, 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.

Aus Open 2024: Carlos Alcaraz battles past Italy's Lorenzo Sonega to reach Round 3

World number 2 and two-time grand slam champion Carlos Alcaraz began his Australian Open campaign with a dominating win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on January 16. Alcaraz, who had missed the tournament&nbsp;last year with injury, won the match 7(7)-6(5), 6-1, 6-2 despite some early jitters.&nbsp;

Speaking after the game, Alcaraz admitted having struggled in the first set which he won in a tie-break.

"In the first set I struggled a little with his game," he said. "He was playing great but I played better and better and at the end I reached quite a good level."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-germanys-alexander-zverev-battles-past-compatriot-dominic-koepfer-in-opening-round-680549">Germany's Alexander Zverev battles past compatriot Dominic Koepfer in opening round of Australian Open</a>

The first set went into the tie-breaker after 62 minutes of play and saw some great shots by both the players as none of them allowed the other to gain complete advantage. The crowd at the famous Rod Laver Arena was on its feet during one particular shot when the French national ended a 22-shot rally with a backhand winner to equal tie breaker at 3-3.

Alcaraz responded well with a backhand shot of his own to make the score read 4-4 before he reached the set point at 6-5 with a ferocious forehand. The 21-year-old then finished off the shootout with finely constructed point to win the tie-breaker 7-5.

“He’s been around forever. He’s an amazing player. He has a lot of talent. His backhand is amazing, it’s crazy. He did a pretty good first set and then I put my own game,” Alcaraz said about his opponent.

Alcaraz was especially good with the serves as he won 73 per cent points on his first serve and 72 per cent on second against Gasquet's 59 per cent and 39 per cent, respectively. The Spaniard won 121 points against the French national's 90 and won 19 games against his opponent's nine.

Alcaraz also won four out of 16 break points while Gasquet won none. The Spanish player also won seven games in a row during the match along with 10 points on the trot as well.

The Spaniard will next play Italian Lorenzo Sonego on Wednesday (Jan 18) in the second round.

World number 2 and two-time grand slam champion Carlos Alcaraz began his Australian Open campaign with a dominating win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on January 16.

World number 2 and two-time grand slam champion Carlos Alcaraz began his Australian Open campaign with a dominating win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet on January 16. Alcaraz, who had missed the tournament last year with injury, won the match 7(7)-6(5), 6-1, 6-2 despite some early jitters. Speaking after the game, Alcaraz admitted having struggled in the first set which he won in a tie-break. "In the first set I struggled a little with his game," he said. "He was playing great but I played better and better and at the end I reached quite a good level." Also Read: Germany's Alexander Zverev battles past compatriot Dominic Koepfer in opening round of Australian Open The first set went into the tie-breaker after 62 minutes of play and saw some great shots by both the players as none of them allowed the other to gain complete advantage. The crowd at the famous Rod Laver Arena was on its feet during one particular shot when the French national ended a 22-shot rally with a backhand winner to equal tie breaker at 3-3. Alcaraz responded well with a backhand shot of his own to make the score read 4-4 before he reached the set point at 6-5 with a ferocious forehand. The 21-year-old then finished off the shootout with finely constructed point to win the tie-breaker 7-5. “He’s been around forever. He’s an amazing player. He has a lot of talent. His backhand is amazing, it’s crazy. He did a pretty good first set and then I put my own game,” Alcaraz said about his opponent. Alcaraz was especially good with the serves as he won 73 per cent points on his first serve and 72 per cent on second against Gasquet's 59 per cent and 39 per cent, respectively. The Spaniard won 121 points against the French national's 90 and won 19 games against his opponent's nine. Alcaraz also won four out of 16 break points while Gasquet won none. The Spanish player also won seven games in a row during the match along with 10 points on the trot as well. The Spaniard will next play Italian Lorenzo Sonego on Wednesday (Jan 18) in the second round.

Australian Open: Carlos Alcaraz begins campaign with dominating win over Richard Gasquet

Defending champion Novak Djokovic entered the third round of Australian Open with a hard-fought victory on January 17 at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Djokovic defeated homeboy Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 to move ahead in year's first grand slam. The Serb was made to work for this victory, especially in the third set which went on for nearly 75 minutes as it ended up in the tiebreaker.

"I haven't been playing my best," Djokovic said after the game. "I'm still trying to find form. But, particularly in the early rounds, you face players who have nothing to lose really."&nbsp;

"They come out on centre court trying to play their best match."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-goes-past-jordan-thompson-in-four-set-encounter-enters-third-round-680891">Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Jordan Thompson in four-set encounter, enters third round</a>

"Both my first and second-round opponents were really quality tennis players. I managed to find a way to win in four, that's what counts in the end. Hopefully I can find a way to build on this as the tournament progresses," he added.

As of the game, the 10-time tournament winner won three break points out of 11 while his opponent won two out of seven. The Serb also managed to win 124 points in 23 games against Popyrin's 106 in 18. Both the players won a maximum three games in a row while Djokovic led in points 8-6.

The 24 grand slam winner had the advantage with his serve, winning 87 points against the Aussie's 74. Djokovic also won 19 service games while Popyrin just managed 16.

The Serbian, however, praised with his opponent thoroughly after game for putting up a great performance.

"I don’t think I played at the highest level. In some instances yes. But also credit to him for tactically serving at the right game plan and serving big. He deserves a big round of applause for the performance,” he said.

Djokovic next plays Argentina's Tomas Martin Etcheverry on January 20.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic entered the third round of Australian Open with a hard-fought victory on January 17 at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Djokovic defeated homeboy Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 to move ahead in year's first grand slam.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic entered the third round of Australian Open with a hard-fought victory on January 17 at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Djokovic defeated homeboy Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 to move ahead in year's first grand slam. The Serb was made to work for this victory, especially in the third set which went on for nearly 75 minutes as it ended up in the tiebreaker. "I haven't been playing my best," Djokovic said after the game. "I'm still trying to find form. But, particularly in the early rounds, you face players who have nothing to lose really." "They come out on centre court trying to play their best match." Also Read: Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Jordan Thompson in four-set encounter, enters third round "Both my first and second-round opponents were really quality tennis players. I managed to find a way to win in four, that's what counts in the end. Hopefully I can find a way to build on this as the tournament progresses," he added. As of the game, the 10-time tournament winner won three break points out of 11 while his opponent won two out of seven. The Serb also managed to win 124 points in 23 games against Popyrin's 106 in 18. Both the players won a maximum three games in a row while Djokovic led in points 8-6. The 24 grand slam winner had the advantage with his serve, winning 87 points against the Aussie's 74. Djokovic also won 19 service games while Popyrin just managed 16. The Serbian, however, praised with his opponent thoroughly after game for putting up a great performance. "I don’t think I played at the highest level. In some instances yes. But also credit to him for tactically serving at the right game plan and serving big. He deserves a big round of applause for the performance,” he said. Djokovic next plays Argentina's Tomas Martin Etcheverry on January 20.

Australian Open: Defending champion Novak Djokovic enters third round with hard-fought win over Alexei Popyrin

On Wednesday (Jan 17), Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Australia's Jordan Thompson, 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) to storm into the third round of the men's singles at the Australian Open 2024 edition. Tsitsipas was challenged throughout the contest but the world number seven found ways to comeback and&nbsp;progress ahead. The Greek player will now lock horns with Frenchman&nbsp;Luca Van Assche in the third round.&nbsp;

The match started with Thompson, ranked 47th, winning the opening set. Tsitsipas came back into the contest in the following set but it went to the tiebreaker. With the momentum shifting from one player to the other, Tsitsipas finally managed to edge past Thompson. The third set saw the Greek player storming ahead of the Australian. After winning it 6-2, it seemed as if Tsitsipas would wrap up the contest but that wasn't the case. Thompson, despite conceding two successive sets,&nbsp;gave a tough run in the penultimate set.

Also read:&nbsp;A<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-defending-champion-aryna-sabalenka-coco-gauff-enter-third-round-680880">ustralian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka; Coco Gauff enter third round</a>

Talking about the fourth set, Tsitsipas was behind but took the game to the tiebreaker. Eventually, he grasped the set with a 7-6 scoreline; emerging on top in the tiebreaker by 7-4 to book a place in the third round. His timely aces, slamming 13 overall as opposed to Thompson's five, came in handy as he was pushed to the wall on many occasions by Thompson.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas&nbsp;will look to work a bit more on his game given there are more firm challenges lying ahead in the mega event Down Under.&nbsp;The last edition's runner-up&nbsp;is set to face Van Assche on Saturday (Jan 20).&nbsp;

On Wednesday (Jan 17), Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Australia's Jordan Thompson, 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) to storm into the third round of the men's singles at the Australian Open 2024 edition.

On Wednesday (Jan 17), Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas went past Australia's Jordan Thompson, 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) to storm into the third round of the men's singles at the Australian Open 2024 edition. Tsitsipas was challenged throughout the contest but the world number seven found ways to comeback and progress ahead. The Greek player will now lock horns with Frenchman Luca Van Assche in the third round. The match started with Thompson, ranked 47th, winning the opening set. Tsitsipas came back into the contest in the following set but it went to the tiebreaker. With the momentum shifting from one player to the other, Tsitsipas finally managed to edge past Thompson. The third set saw the Greek player storming ahead of the Australian. After winning it 6-2, it seemed as if Tsitsipas would wrap up the contest but that wasn't the case. Thompson, despite conceding two successive sets, gave a tough run in the penultimate set. Also read: Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka; Coco Gauff enter third round Talking about the fourth set, Tsitsipas was behind but took the game to the tiebreaker. Eventually, he grasped the set with a 7-6 scoreline; emerging on top in the tiebreaker by 7-4 to book a place in the third round. His timely aces, slamming 13 overall as opposed to Thompson's five, came in handy as he was pushed to the wall on many occasions by Thompson. Tsitsipas will look to work a bit more on his game given there are more firm challenges lying ahead in the mega event Down Under. The last edition's runner-up is set to face Van Assche on Saturday (Jan 20).

Australian Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas goes past Jordan Thompson in four-set encounter, enters third round

Defending champion Aryna&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;pummelled her second straight teenage qualifier into submission Wednesday to ease into the Australian Open third round.

The powerful Belarusian second seed was not at her vintage best on Rod Laver Arena, but still did enough against 16-year-old Brenda Fruhvirtova, romping home 6-3, 6-2.

Sabalenka&nbsp;has yet to be seriously tested as she bids to become the first woman to successfully defend her Melbourne title since Victoria Azarenka in 2013.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-australian-open-2024-another-champion-mum-exits-as-carolina-wozniacki-bows-out-680773">Australian Open 2024 - Another champion mum exits as Caroline Wozniacki bows out</a>

Her first-round opponent, Ella Seidel, was also a qualifier and lasted just 53 minutes, with the world number two dropping just one game.

The Czech Republic's Fruhvirtova put up a sterner fight, keeping the 25-year-old on court for 67 minutes before being overwhelmed.

"For someone 16 years old she is doing an incredible job. I mean, I wish I was on her level when I was 16," said&nbsp;Sabalenka. "She is an unbelievable player. She'll be at the top very soon."

"I'm super-happy with the win," she added. "I just tried to focus on myself and not anything else, and just tried to fight for every point."

The odds were always stacked against Fruhvirtova, who has never beaten a top 10 player and is ranked more than 100 places below her opponent.

In only her third Grand Slam main draw, she tested&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;on her opening serve, earning a break point, but it was fended off and the Belarusian responded by breaking the Czech at her first opportunity.

The gutsy teen was undaunted and with&nbsp;Sabalenka's serve misfiring, she earned three more break points in the next game and this time grabbed the opportunity with a forehand down the line.

But the second seed regrouped and kept pressing, earning another break for 5-3 and served out for the set.

Fruhvirtova was broken again immediately in the second set as&nbsp;Sabalenka&nbsp;began imposing herself and there was no way back as the Grand Slam champion settled into her groove.

Sabalenka&nbsp;enjoyed a breakthrough 2023. As well as winning the Australian Open she also made the semi-finals in Paris and at Wimbledon before losing to Coco Gauff in the final of the US Open.

She will next face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko or Spain's Rebeka Masarova.

<h2>Gauff marches on</h2>

US Open champion Coco&nbsp;Gauff&nbsp;eased through to the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday, beating fellow American Caroline Dolehide 7-6 (7/2), 6-2.

The fourth seed raced into a 4-1 lead on Margaret Court Arena before being reeled back by her unseeded opponent.

However,&nbsp;Gauff&nbsp;was relatively untroubled in the tie-break, winning it 7-2.

The second set went with serve until the fifth game, when&nbsp;Gauff&nbsp;broke. She repeated the feat and survived multiple break points on her serve to clinch the match.

"I wasn't nervous today, I was just trying to play good tennis," said&nbsp;Gauff, 19.&nbsp;

"If you give her something short, she's going to punish you for it. So I think if I could go back, I would try to play more deeper, more heavy like I did in the second (set)."

She will play another American, Alycia Parks, in the third round.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka pummelled her second straight teenage qualifier into submission Wednesday to ease into the Australian Open third round. The powerful Belarusian second seed was not at her vintage best on Rod Laver Arena, but still did enough against 16-year-old Brenda Fruhvirtova, romping home 6-3, 6-2.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka pummelled her second straight teenage qualifier into submission Wednesday to ease into the Australian Open third round. The powerful Belarusian second seed was not at her vintage best on Rod Laver Arena, but still did enough against 16-year-old Brenda Fruhvirtova, romping home 6-3, 6-2. Sabalenka has yet to be seriously tested as she bids to become the first woman to successfully defend her Melbourne title since Victoria Azarenka in 2013. Also Read: Australian Open 2024 - Another champion mum exits as Caroline Wozniacki bows out Her first-round opponent, Ella Seidel, was also a qualifier and lasted just 53 minutes, with the world number two dropping just one game. The Czech Republic's Fruhvirtova put up a sterner fight, keeping the 25-year-old on court for 67 minutes before being overwhelmed. "For someone 16 years old she is doing an incredible job. I mean, I wish I was on her level when I was 16," said Sabalenka. "She is an unbelievable player. She'll be at the top very soon." "I'm super-happy with the win," she added. "I just tried to focus on myself and not anything else, and just tried to fight for every point." The odds were always stacked against Fruhvirtova, who has never beaten a top 10 player and is ranked more than 100 places below her opponent. In only her third Grand Slam main draw, she tested Sabalenka on her opening serve, earning a break point, but it was fended off and the Belarusian responded by breaking the Czech at her first opportunity. The gutsy teen was undaunted and with Sabalenka's serve misfiring, she earned three more break points in the next game and this time grabbed the opportunity with a forehand down the line. But the second seed regrouped and kept pressing, earning another break for 5-3 and served out for the set. Fruhvirtova was broken again immediately in the second set as Sabalenka began imposing herself and there was no way back as the Grand Slam champion settled into her groove. Sabalenka enjoyed a breakthrough 2023. As well as winning the Australian Open she also made the semi-finals in Paris and at Wimbledon before losing to Coco Gauff in the final of the US Open. She will next face Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko or Spain's Rebeka Masarova. Gauff marches on US Open champion Coco Gauff eased through to the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday, beating fellow American Caroline Dolehide 7-6 (7/2), 6-2. The fourth seed raced into a 4-1 lead on Margaret Court Arena before being reeled back by her unseeded opponent. However, Gauff was relatively untroubled in the tie-break, winning it 7-2. The second set went with serve until the fifth game, when Gauff broke. She repeated the feat and survived multiple break points on her serve to clinch the match. "I wasn't nervous today, I was just trying to play good tennis," said Gauff, 19. "If you give her something short, she's going to punish you for it. So I think if I could go back, I would try to play more deeper, more heavy like I did in the second (set)." She will play another American, Alycia Parks, in the third round.

Australian Open: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka; Coco Gauff enter third round

Much has changed for Caroline Wozniacki after she returned to the Australian Open from a four-year absence but the Dane said the sting of disappointment of losing at a Grand Slam still felt the same. Wozniacki lost 1-6 6-4 6-1 to Maria Timofeeva in the second round on Wednesday, her first Australian Open since the 2020 edition. The 2018 champion stepped away from the sport two years later before deciding to return to the WTA Tour in 2023.

The Danish wildcard arrived at Melbourne Park this year with her children Olivia and James in tow but made her earliest exit since going out in the first round in 2016. "Losing now and losing then, it doesn't really change," Wozniacki told reporters. "You want to win everything. When you have the family here you want to win even more because you want to stay longer and not have to move around. "It definitely sucks and it's disappointing. I felt like this was my match to win and I didn't. I sit here with a very disappointing feeling, because looking back, I feel like the match slid out of my hands. "At this point, there's nothing I can do about it but playing a Grand Slam you want to keep winning."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-teenager-mirra-andreeva-thrashes-wimbledon-runner-up-ons-jabeur-in-second-round-680668">Australian Open: Teenager Mirra Andreeva thrashes Wimbledon runner-up Ons Jabeur in second round</a>

Wozniacki was one of three former Australian Open champions and new mothers making their Melbourne comebacks alongside Angelique Kerber and Naomi Osaka, who both went out in the first round. German Kerber, who won the Australian Open in 2016, was a lot more relaxed and appreciated the wave of support after Tuesday's 6-2 3-6 6-1 loss to Danielle Collins having returned to the tour after a gap of 18 months.

"I think I'm more open than before ... it's a little bit different," Kerber said. "I'm also more relaxed, so I feel that they (other players) appreciate it and I think it's nice to see so many moms are back on tour."

Much has changed for Caroline Wozniacki after she returned to the Australian Open from a four-year absence but the Dane said the sting of disappointment of losing at a Grand Slam still felt the same.

Much has changed for Caroline Wozniacki after she returned to the Australian Open from a four-year absence but the Dane said the sting of disappointment of losing at a Grand Slam still felt the same. Wozniacki lost 1-6 6-4 6-1 to Maria Timofeeva in the second round on Wednesday, her first Australian Open since the 2020 edition. The 2018 champion stepped away from the sport two years later before deciding to return to the WTA Tour in 2023. The Danish wildcard arrived at Melbourne Park this year with her children Olivia and James in tow but made her earliest exit since going out in the first round in 2016. "Losing now and losing then, it doesn't really change," Wozniacki told reporters. "You want to win everything. When you have the family here you want to win even more because you want to stay longer and not have to move around. "It definitely sucks and it's disappointing. I felt like this was my match to win and I didn't. I sit here with a very disappointing feeling, because looking back, I feel like the match slid out of my hands. "At this point, there's nothing I can do about it but playing a Grand Slam you want to keep winning." Also read: Australian Open: Teenager Mirra Andreeva thrashes Wimbledon runner-up Ons Jabeur in second round Wozniacki was one of three former Australian Open champions and new mothers making their Melbourne comebacks alongside Angelique Kerber and Naomi Osaka, who both went out in the first round. German Kerber, who won the Australian Open in 2016, was a lot more relaxed and appreciated the wave of support after Tuesday's 6-2 3-6 6-1 loss to Danielle Collins having returned to the tour after a gap of 18 months. "I think I'm more open than before ... it's a little bit different," Kerber said. "I'm also more relaxed, so I feel that they (other players) appreciate it and I think it's nice to see so many moms are back on tour."

Tennis: Australian Open 2024 - Another champion mum exits as Caroline Wozniacki bows out

Germany's Alexander Zverev battled past compatriot&nbsp;Dominic Koepfer in the opening round, winning 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3. Zverev was pushed throughout the game but brought in his experience to go past the 29-year-old in his first-round clash at Melbourne Park. The sixth-ranked Zverev will now lock horns with Slovakian player&nbsp;Lukáš Klein in round two on Thursday (Jan 18).&nbsp;

Talking about the match, it was not the best of starts for Zverev as Koepfer was up for the challenge and won the opening set 6-4. Zverev, however, came back into the contest with an impressive show in the second set. Eventually, he won it 6-3 without dropping much sweat. The third set was the most competitive with the momentum shifting from one player to the other. It went into the tiebreaker where Zverev held his nerves to win his second successive set, edging past Koepfer 7-6 (7-3). The fourth and penultimate set saw him dominate once again and eventually close the match 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3.&nbsp;

Zverev was particularly dominant with his aces (slamming 18 as opposed to Koepfer's eight) whereas he also committed a few double faults. He was also effective with his serves&nbsp;to go past his opposition to move ahead in the mega event Down Under.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-2024-sumit-nagal-goes-past-alexander-bublik-in-straight-sets-to-storm-into-second-round-680418">Aus Open 2024: Sumit Nagal goes past Alexander Bublik in straight sets to storm into second round</a>

<h2>Win amid troubled times for&nbsp;Zverev</h2>

Before his match versus Koepfer,&nbsp;news broke out that&nbsp;Zverev -- Germany's No. 1 tennis player -- will undergo a&nbsp;trial for physical abuse in May. The development was confirmed by the Berlin criminal court, as confirmed by media outlet DW.

It is to be noted that Zverev, the Olympic champion in Tokyo in 2021, is accused of "physically abusing a woman and damaging her health during an argument." The woman, named by his lawyers, is said to be his ex-girlfriend, called Brenda Patea. However, the 26-year-old German star has rejected all such allegations levied upon him.&nbsp;In a statement to DW, Lisa Jani, a spokesperson for the court, wrote: "The main hearing in the case will begin in May 2024. We will announce the details in due course."

Germany's Alexander Zverev battled past compatriot Dominic Koepfer in the opening round, winning 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3. Zverev was pushed throughout the game but brought in his experience to go past the 29-year-old in his first-round clash at Melbourne Park.

Germany's Alexander Zverev battled past compatriot Dominic Koepfer in the opening round, winning 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3. Zverev was pushed throughout the game but brought in his experience to go past the 29-year-old in his first-round clash at Melbourne Park. The sixth-ranked Zverev will now lock horns with Slovakian player Lukáš Klein in round two on Thursday (Jan 18). Talking about the match, it was not the best of starts for Zverev as Koepfer was up for the challenge and won the opening set 6-4. Zverev, however, came back into the contest with an impressive show in the second set. Eventually, he won it 6-3 without dropping much sweat. The third set was the most competitive with the momentum shifting from one player to the other. It went into the tiebreaker where Zverev held his nerves to win his second successive set, edging past Koepfer 7-6 (7-3). The fourth and penultimate set saw him dominate once again and eventually close the match 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), 6-3. Zverev was particularly dominant with his aces (slamming 18 as opposed to Koepfer's eight) whereas he also committed a few double faults. He was also effective with his serves to go past his opposition to move ahead in the mega event Down Under. Also read: Aus Open 2024: Sumit Nagal goes past Alexander Bublik in straight sets to storm into second round Win amid troubled times for Zverev Before his match versus Koepfer, news broke out that Zverev -- Germany's No. 1 tennis player -- will undergo a trial for physical abuse in May. The development was confirmed by the Berlin criminal court, as confirmed by media outlet DW. It is to be noted that Zverev, the Olympic champion in Tokyo in 2021, is accused of "physically abusing a woman and damaging her health during an argument." The woman, named by his lawyers, is said to be his ex-girlfriend, called Brenda Patea. However, the 26-year-old German star has rejected all such allegations levied upon him. In a statement to DW, Lisa Jani, a spokesperson for the court, wrote: "The main hearing in the case will begin in May 2024. We will announce the details in due course."

Australian Open 2024: Germany’s Alexander Zverev battles past compatriot Dominic Koepfer in opening round

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday.

The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0.

"The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-open-gauff-shakes-off-service-woes-to-down-schmiedlova-wimbledon-champion-vondrousova-crashes-out-679993">Gauff shakes off service woes to down Schmiedlova, Wimbledon champion Vondrousova crashes out</a>

"I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum."&nbsp;

Medvedev broke for 2-1 in the opening set and raced to 5-3, but a battling Atmane levelled the score at 5-5 when Medvedev missed a volley.

With his confidence building, the Frenchman, on his Grand Slam debut, held serve then broke again to take the set and leave the world number three shaking his head in disbelief.

Medvedev woke up to steam through the second set before Atmane started cramping badly.

He resorted to underarm serves as he struggled to move and demolished his racquet when he lost serve to slip 2-1 behind in the third set.

The 22-year-old gamely battled on, still in pain, mixing underarm and overarm serves as Medvedev cashed in to take the third set.

But after losing the first game of the fourth set, he was forced to retire, sobbing as his tournament ended.

Medvedev, who faces Finland's unseeded Emil Ruusuvuori in the next round, said ahead of the match he is trying to "mature" and do fewer "stupid things" on court to shake off his reputation as a tennis villain.

The Russian is no stranger to outbursts and meltdowns on court, which has earned him a love-hate relationship with fans.

He was mostly well behaved against Atmane, but did complain about the water bottles.

Medvedev lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 Melbourne final and Rafael Nadal a year later, which sparked a form slump.

But has since bounced back, winning 66 matches last season, more than any other player on tour.

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday.

Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday. The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0. "The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared." Also Read: Gauff shakes off service woes to down Schmiedlova, Wimbledon champion Vondrousova crashes out "I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum." Medvedev broke for 2-1 in the opening set and raced to 5-3, but a battling Atmane levelled the score at 5-5 when Medvedev missed a volley. With his confidence building, the Frenchman, on his Grand Slam debut, held serve then broke again to take the set and leave the world number three shaking his head in disbelief. Medvedev woke up to steam through the second set before Atmane started cramping badly. He resorted to underarm serves as he struggled to move and demolished his racquet when he lost serve to slip 2-1 behind in the third set. The 22-year-old gamely battled on, still in pain, mixing underarm and overarm serves as Medvedev cashed in to take the third set. But after losing the first game of the fourth set, he was forced to retire, sobbing as his tournament ended. Medvedev, who faces Finland's unseeded Emil Ruusuvuori in the next round, said ahead of the match he is trying to "mature" and do fewer "stupid things" on court to shake off his reputation as a tennis villain. The Russian is no stranger to outbursts and meltdowns on court, which has earned him a love-hate relationship with fans. He was mostly well behaved against Atmane, but did complain about the water bottles. Medvedev lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 Melbourne final and Rafael Nadal a year later, which sparked a form slump. But has since bounced back, winning 66 matches last season, more than any other player on tour.

Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev gets walkover win in opening round after opponent retires with cramps

Former two-time Australian Open winner Japan’s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the ongoing first Grand Slam of the year in straight sets in the first round on Monday. Upon her return to top-flight tennis after being away for 15 months on maternity leave, Osaka lost to Caroline Garcia 4-6, 6-7 (2) at the Rod Laver Arena.

Entering the competition with just two weeks of training, Osaka faced a stern challenge from the French star and 16th-seeded Garcia, who, much like Osaka, is also strong on the baseline. Osaka’s much-awaited and talked-about return didn’t reap enough rewards as she bowed out sluggishly.&nbsp;

The first set was a see-saw ride before Garcia gained an advantage because of a double fault, winning the first point (of the match) in the fifth game. Making the most of her chance, the former world number four went for the set on the back of two consecutive aces, winning it eventually by 6-4.&nbsp;

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The former ranked number one women’s player in the world, Osaka won her first three service games in the second set but crumbled under pressure against Garcia, who continued to serve well and broke Osaka’s momentum.&nbsp;

Having beaten her previously (6-2, 6-3) during the 2021 AO edition, Osaka found it tougher to walk past her opponent this time, who had upped her game in these two years.

With the second set going into the tiebreaker, Garcia, who already held an advantage with a first-set win, won her first match point after Osaka smashed her backhand shot into the net.&nbsp;

Garcia eventually won the tiebreaker, the second set and the match.

<h2>Osaka to be back soon – Garcia</h2>

Just after causing the first major upset in the women’s division in the Australian Open 2024, Garcia showered words of praise on Osaka, saying she expects the ‘new mommy’ in the town to return stronger and get back to where she belongs - the top of the women’s ATP rankings.

"She has had an amazing career; she has been away for 15 months and been through a lot," the 30-year-old said. "I hope she can enjoy her tennis. She has done a lot for tennis in the past few years. Six months after giving birth and she's playing amazing, so we have to watch out."

Meanwhile, after going down in the first rounds of the French and the US Opens in 2022, Osaka bowled out of the Australian Open this early for the first time.

Former two-time Australian Open winner Japan’s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the ongoing first Grand Slam of the year in straight sets in the first round on Monday.

Former two-time Australian Open winner Japan’s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the ongoing first Grand Slam of the year in straight sets in the first round on Monday. Upon her return to top-flight tennis after being away for 15 months on maternity leave, Osaka lost to Caroline Garcia 4-6, 6-7 (2) at the Rod Laver Arena. Entering the competition with just two weeks of training, Osaka faced a stern challenge from the French star and 16th-seeded Garcia, who, much like Osaka, is also strong on the baseline. Osaka’s much-awaited and talked-about return didn’t reap enough rewards as she bowed out sluggishly. The first set was a see-saw ride before Garcia gained an advantage because of a double fault, winning the first point (of the match) in the fifth game. Making the most of her chance, the former world number four went for the set on the back of two consecutive aces, winning it eventually by 6-4. ALSO READ: Andy Murray hints at retirement from Australian Open following first-round slump The former ranked number one women’s player in the world, Osaka won her first three service games in the second set but crumbled under pressure against Garcia, who continued to serve well and broke Osaka’s momentum. Having beaten her previously (6-2, 6-3) during the 2021 AO edition, Osaka found it tougher to walk past her opponent this time, who had upped her game in these two years. With the second set going into the tiebreaker, Garcia, who already held an advantage with a first-set win, won her first match point after Osaka smashed her backhand shot into the net. Garcia eventually won the tiebreaker, the second set and the match. Osaka to be back soon – Garcia Just after causing the first major upset in the women’s division in the Australian Open 2024, Garcia showered words of praise on Osaka, saying she expects the ‘new mommy’ in the town to return stronger and get back to where she belongs - the top of the women’s ATP rankings. "She has had an amazing career; she has been away for 15 months and been through a lot," the 30-year-old said. "I hope she can enjoy her tennis. She has done a lot for tennis in the past few years. Six months after giving birth and she's playing amazing, so we have to watch out." Meanwhile, after going down in the first rounds of the French and the US Opens in 2022, Osaka bowled out of the Australian Open this early for the first time.

Australian Open 2024: Returning two-time winner Naomi Osaka crashes out in first round

Fourth seed Coco Gauff made a slightly wobbly start to her Australian Open campaign on Monday before the American found her rhythm to defeat Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3 6-0 and reach the second round. Gauff, the newest member of the Grand Slam champions club after her U.S. Open success last September, traded breaks freely with Schmiedlova after her opening service game and came up with a late hold to wrap up the first set.

The 19-year-old stepped up a gear in the next set as Schmiedlova continued to struggle on serve and raced ahead 3-0 with a superb cross-court winner from the deep to draw loud cheers from fans on Rod Laver Arena.

Gauff was barely troubled from there as she served out the match, finishing it off with a neat backhand winner to set up a meeting with fellow American Caroline Dolehide in the next round.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-novak-djokovic-begins-title-defence-with-first-round-win-over-teenager-dino-prizmic-679905">Australian Open 2024: Novak Djokovic begins title defence with first-round win over teenager Dino Prizmic</a>

<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="Tennis-Seventh seed Vondrousova sent packing by Yastremska at Australian Open">Seventh seed Marketa Vondrousova ousted</h2>

Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova crashed to a stunning defeat in the opening round of the Australian Open on Monday as Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska outclassed her 6-1 6-2. Seventh seed Vondrousova, who arrived in Melbourne after a hip issue forced her to withdraw from the warm-up tournament in Adelaide, quickly found herself 5-0 down in the opening set as Yastremska sensed an opportunity for a big upset.

The 24-year-old Czech, who became the first unseeded woman to claim the All England title last year, got on the scoreboard late in the first set but the powerful Yastremska had built up far too much momentum and wrapped it up in style.

Yastremska, the world number 93 who reached the third round at Melbourne Park in 2019, secured the early break in the second set as her opponent continued to spray the errors and the 23-year-old held firm to seal the victory.

Fourth seed Coco Gauff made a slightly wobbly start to her Australian Open campaign on Monday before the American found her rhythm to defeat Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3 6-0 and reach the second round.

Fourth seed Coco Gauff made a slightly wobbly start to her Australian Open campaign on Monday before the American found her rhythm to defeat Slovakia's Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3 6-0 and reach the second round. Gauff, the newest member of the Grand Slam champions club after her U.S. Open success last September, traded breaks freely with Schmiedlova after her opening service game and came up with a late hold to wrap up the first set. The 19-year-old stepped up a gear in the next set as Schmiedlova continued to struggle on serve and raced ahead 3-0 with a superb cross-court winner from the deep to draw loud cheers from fans on Rod Laver Arena. Gauff was barely troubled from there as she served out the match, finishing it off with a neat backhand winner to set up a meeting with fellow American Caroline Dolehide in the next round. Also read: Australian Open 2024: Novak Djokovic begins title defence with first-round win over teenager Dino Prizmic Seventh seed Marketa Vondrousova ousted Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova crashed to a stunning defeat in the opening round of the Australian Open on Monday as Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska outclassed her 6-1 6-2. Seventh seed Vondrousova, who arrived in Melbourne after a hip issue forced her to withdraw from the warm-up tournament in Adelaide, quickly found herself 5-0 down in the opening set as Yastremska sensed an opportunity for a big upset. The 24-year-old Czech, who became the first unseeded woman to claim the All England title last year, got on the scoreboard late in the first set but the powerful Yastremska had built up far too much momentum and wrapped it up in style. Yastremska, the world number 93 who reached the third round at Melbourne Park in 2019, secured the early break in the second set as her opponent continued to spray the errors and the 23-year-old held firm to seal the victory.

Aus Open: Gauff shakes off service woes to down Schmiedlova, Wimbledon champion Vondrousova crashes out

Five-time finalist Andy Murray said Monday there was a "definite possibility" that he has played his final Australian Open after slumping at the first hurdle.

The 36-year-old put up stiff resistance in a 61-minute first set against Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry, but the 30th seed overpowered him and won 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

Murray had a frustrating end to 2023, winning just one match in his last four tournaments, and said previously that unless his form picked up the curtain could be coming down on his career.

"Yeah, it's a definite possibility that will be the last time I play here," he said. "In comparison to the matches that I played here last year, it's the complete opposite feeling walking off the court. Wish I involved the crowd more. Just disappointed with the way I played. Tough, tough way to finish."

The British player, who won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016 and also took the US Open title in 2012, is part of a golden generation coming towards the end of trophy-laden careers.

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Roger Federer retired in 2022 and Rafael Nadal had an injury-blighted 2023 and is absent from the Australian Open with a muscle tear.

At 36, Djokovic is still hoping to add to his record haul of 24 Grand Slam titles before hanging up his racquet.

Murray said he had spoken to his family and coaching staff about when he might quit.

"They're very aware of how I feel about things, where I would like to finish playing, when that would be," he said. "I haven't made any definite decisions on that. Yeah, it's obviously something that I need to think about and see exactly when that is."

"It's not like it hasn't been something that's been on my mind."

He added that the time frame on when he will retire "narrows when you play and have results like today".

"I haven't gained in belief from today's match that at some stage I'm going to start playing really well again or winning tournaments or getting to the latter stages of major events."

Etcheverry, 12 years younger than his opponent, said Murray was one of his idols.

"Very tough for me playing with a legend like Andy," he said. "I just tried to play my game and focus on my points."

Murray's defeat deprived fans of a potential third-round clash against defending champion Djokovic.

To have a chance of facing the top seed, Etcheverry, who reached the French Open quarter-finals last year, must first get past another veteran, Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Five-time finalist Andy Murray said Monday there was a "definite possibility" that he has played his final Australian Open after slumping at the first hurdle. The 36-year-old put up stiff resistance in a 61-minute first set against Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry, but the 30th seed overpowered him and won 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

Five-time finalist Andy Murray said Monday there was a "definite possibility" that he has played his final Australian Open after slumping at the first hurdle. The 36-year-old put up stiff resistance in a 61-minute first set against Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry, but the 30th seed overpowered him and won 6-4, 6-2, 6-2. Murray had a frustrating end to 2023, winning just one match in his last four tournaments, and said previously that unless his form picked up the curtain could be coming down on his career. "Yeah, it's a definite possibility that will be the last time I play here," he said. "In comparison to the matches that I played here last year, it's the complete opposite feeling walking off the court. Wish I involved the crowd more. Just disappointed with the way I played. Tough, tough way to finish." The British player, who won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016 and also took the US Open title in 2012, is part of a golden generation coming towards the end of trophy-laden careers. ALSO READ: Turkey court releases jailed Israeli footballer over Gaza war sign Roger Federer retired in 2022 and Rafael Nadal had an injury-blighted 2023 and is absent from the Australian Open with a muscle tear. At 36, Djokovic is still hoping to add to his record haul of 24 Grand Slam titles before hanging up his racquet. Murray said he had spoken to his family and coaching staff about when he might quit. "They're very aware of how I feel about things, where I would like to finish playing, when that would be," he said. "I haven't made any definite decisions on that. Yeah, it's obviously something that I need to think about and see exactly when that is." "It's not like it hasn't been something that's been on my mind." He added that the time frame on when he will retire "narrows when you play and have results like today". "I haven't gained in belief from today's match that at some stage I'm going to start playing really well again or winning tournaments or getting to the latter stages of major events." Etcheverry, 12 years younger than his opponent, said Murray was one of his idols. "Very tough for me playing with a legend like Andy," he said. "I just tried to play my game and focus on my points." Murray's defeat deprived fans of a potential third-round clash against defending champion Djokovic. To have a chance of facing the top seed, Etcheverry, who reached the French Open quarter-finals last year, must first get past another veteran, Frenchman Gael Monfils.

Andy Murray hints at retirement from Australian Open following first-round slump

World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One. Djokovic went past&nbsp;Croatia’s Dino Prizmic,&nbsp;6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4, in the men's singles. Later, he reacted to Kohli's wishes on social media platform X.

Taking to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, Djokovic wrote, "Thank you for these kind words @imVkohli Looking forward to the day we play together". This was in response to&nbsp;the former Indian skipper Kohli's revelation&nbsp;on how the two superstar athletes have been in touch, on Instagram,&nbsp;for a few years.

<h2>'I hope you have a great tournament'</h2>

Ahead of Kohli's T20I return, on Sunday evening during India's second and penultimate T20I versus Afghanistan in Indore, the 35-year-old spoke about his interaction with Djokovic in a video on BCCI.tv.&nbsp;"I got in touch with Novak very organically, I think on I was I was just looking at his profile once on Instagram, and I just happened to press the message button and thought I would just say hello. And then I saw a message from him on my DM already. I had never opened it myself. I was like, let me just check if it's a fake account or something like that. But then I checked it again and it was legitimate. And then yeah, we got talking. We keep exchanging messages every now and then. I congratulated him for all his amazing achievements,” said Kohli.

“I would like to wish you all the very best for the Australian Open. I know how excited and prepared you are for these big events, and I have no doubt that we'll see the Novak Djokovic that we've seen over the years. I hope you have a great tournament,” he added.

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Later, Djokovic reacted to Kohli's message, shared by BCCI's account on X, after moving to the second round of the Australian Open.

The Serb also spoke&nbsp;about his tournament-opener in which he had&nbsp;a tough time against Prizmic in a game which lasted over four hours. Djokovic is eyeing his tenth title at the Australian Open in Melbourne.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Kohli returned to India's T20I setup in the second and penultimate game of the India-Afghanistan series at home. In his side's successful 173-run chase, the batter played a vital part with an entertaining 16-ball 29. The third and final T20I will be played in Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17) with India eyeing a clean sweep.

World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One.

World number one Novak Djokovic responded to Indian star batter Virat Kohli's good wishes for the ongoing Australian Open 2024 edition. The first Grand Slam of the year kicked off in Melbourne on Jan 14 which saw Djokovic play his first-round game on Day One. Djokovic went past Croatia’s Dino Prizmic, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4, in the men's singles. Later, he reacted to Kohli's wishes on social media platform X. Taking to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, Djokovic wrote, "Thank you for these kind words @imVkohli Looking forward to the day we play together". This was in response to the former Indian skipper Kohli's revelation on how the two superstar athletes have been in touch, on Instagram, for a few years. 'I hope you have a great tournament' Ahead of Kohli's T20I return, on Sunday evening during India's second and penultimate T20I versus Afghanistan in Indore, the 35-year-old spoke about his interaction with Djokovic in a video on BCCI.tv. "I got in touch with Novak very organically, I think on I was I was just looking at his profile once on Instagram, and I just happened to press the message button and thought I would just say hello. And then I saw a message from him on my DM already. I had never opened it myself. I was like, let me just check if it's a fake account or something like that. But then I checked it again and it was legitimate. And then yeah, we got talking. We keep exchanging messages every now and then. I congratulated him for all his amazing achievements,” said Kohli. “I would like to wish you all the very best for the Australian Open. I know how excited and prepared you are for these big events, and I have no doubt that we'll see the Novak Djokovic that we've seen over the years. I hope you have a great tournament,” he added. Also read: Virat Kohli opens up on chatting with tennis legend Novak Djokovic on Instagram Later, Djokovic reacted to Kohli's message, shared by BCCI's account on X, after moving to the second round of the Australian Open. The Serb also spoke about his tournament-opener in which he had a tough time against Prizmic in a game which lasted over four hours. Djokovic is eyeing his tenth title at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Meanwhile, Kohli returned to India's T20I setup in the second and penultimate game of the India-Afghanistan series at home. In his side's successful 173-run chase, the batter played a vital part with an entertaining 16-ball 29. The third and final T20I will be played in Bengaluru on Wednesday (Jan 17) with India eyeing a clean sweep.

Djokovic acknowledges Kohli for Australian Open wishes, says 'looking forward to the day we play together'

Five-times runner-up Andy Murray and 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka have enjoyed plenty of deep runs at the Australian Open but the veteran pair were both dumped out in the first round on Monday. Murray fell 6-4 6-2 6-2 to Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry while Wawrinka took 20th seed Adrian Mannarino to five sets before going down 6-4 3-6 5-7 6-3 6-0.

The last time Murray went out in the opening round of the Melbourne Park major was in 2019 when the Scot expressed doubts about his tennis future before going on to resurrect his career after having hip-resurfacing surgery. The 36-year-old twice Wimbledon champion has struggled to reach the latter stages at Grand Slams in recent years but dragged himself into the third round in Melbourne in 2023 with back-to-back five-sets wins.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-daniil-medvedev-gets-walkover-win-in-opening-round-after-opponent-retires-with-cramps-680045">Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev gets walkover win in opening round after opponent retires with cramps</a>

Wawrinka was the only player in the men's draw other than defending champion Novak Djokovic to have claimed the Melbourne Park trophy and the 38-year-old Swiss hoped Monday's loss would not be his final appearance at the Grand Slam. "I'll see how the year goes. It's just the beginning of the year," Wawrinka said. "In general, I'm quite positive with where I am right now. "Even after the loss, there is some good opportunity for me to keep pushing, keep playing some good results and hopefully I can come back next year."

<h2>DANIIL MEDVEDEV GETS A WALKOVER</h2>

AFP: Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday. The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0.

"The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared."&nbsp; "I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum."&nbsp;

Five-times runner-up Andy Murray and 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka have enjoyed plenty of deep runs at the Australian Open but the veteran pair were both dumped out in the first round on Monday.

Five-times runner-up Andy Murray and 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka have enjoyed plenty of deep runs at the Australian Open but the veteran pair were both dumped out in the first round on Monday. Murray fell 6-4 6-2 6-2 to Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry while Wawrinka took 20th seed Adrian Mannarino to five sets before going down 6-4 3-6 5-7 6-3 6-0. The last time Murray went out in the opening round of the Melbourne Park major was in 2019 when the Scot expressed doubts about his tennis future before going on to resurrect his career after having hip-resurfacing surgery. The 36-year-old twice Wimbledon champion has struggled to reach the latter stages at Grand Slams in recent years but dragged himself into the third round in Melbourne in 2023 with back-to-back five-sets wins. Also read: Australian Open: Daniil Medvedev gets walkover win in opening round after opponent retires with cramps Wawrinka was the only player in the men's draw other than defending champion Novak Djokovic to have claimed the Melbourne Park trophy and the 38-year-old Swiss hoped Monday's loss would not be his final appearance at the Grand Slam. "I'll see how the year goes. It's just the beginning of the year," Wawrinka said. "In general, I'm quite positive with where I am right now. "Even after the loss, there is some good opportunity for me to keep pushing, keep playing some good results and hopefully I can come back next year." DANIIL MEDVEDEV GETS A WALKOVER AFP: Frenchman Terence Atmane smashed his racquet, served underarm and retired in tears as he dealt with serious cramp in pushing third seed Daniil Medvedev hard at the Australian Open on Monday. The qualifier struggled in the searing heat on Margaret Court Arena, stunning the Russian by taking the first set but was unable to continue when trailing 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0. "The conditions were brutal," said two-time tournament finalist Medvedev. "The more he (Atmane) plays this intensity, the better he will be prepared." "I'm just happy to be through," he added. "I played bad at the beginning in the first set, but I was happy I could regain momentum."

Tennis: Experienced campaigners Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka make early Australian Open exits

Novak Djokovic was dragged into a dogfight by talented teenager Dino Prizmic and had to dig deep to open his Australian Open title defence with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 victory in the first round on Sunday.

The Serbian, who played his first Australian Open a few months before the Croatian qualifier was born in August 2005, initially looked fully in control of the contest on the Rod Laver Arena court where he has won 10 of his 24 Grand Slam titles.

Prizmic had already shown glimpses of the weapons he possesses and broke the top seed with a brilliant crosscourt winner early in the second set, forcing Djokovic to raise his game to break straight back.

The 18-year-old world number 178, who needed a medical timeout to get some strapping on his thigh early in the match, was a man transformed, however, and kept up his level to even up the contest in the tiebreak with his third set point.

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That merely set the tone for an enthralling third set in which 36-year-old Djokovic was put under intense pressure by his athletic opponent, making 20 unforced errors and facing six break points.

Djokovic broke Prizmic at the start but the teenager kept ripping huge forehands and stayed with the world number one in several rallies to put the match back on serve before breaking again for a 3-2 lead after a 15-minute battle of a game.

It had been six years and 28 matches since Djokovic last lost a match at the Australian Open and he was not going to put that record at risk easily.

He regrouped, changed his shirt and won the next four games to take the set, pumping his fist and letting out a huge roar in a tribute to the problems Prizmic had caused him.

More than three hours of playing with one of the best players of all time started to take its toll on Prizmic and Djokovic drove home his advantage to take his 90th win at the Australian Open in just over four hours.

The next challenge to Djokovic's bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title will come from one of two Australians, Alexei Popyrin or Marc Polmans.

Novak Djokovic was dragged into a dogfight by talented teenager Dino Prizmic and had to dig deep to open his Australian Open title defence with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 victory in the first round on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic was dragged into a dogfight by talented teenager Dino Prizmic and had to dig deep to open his Australian Open title defence with a 6-2 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 victory in the first round on Sunday. The Serbian, who played his first Australian Open a few months before the Croatian qualifier was born in August 2005, initially looked fully in control of the contest on the Rod Laver Arena court where he has won 10 of his 24 Grand Slam titles. Prizmic had already shown glimpses of the weapons he possesses and broke the top seed with a brilliant crosscourt winner early in the second set, forcing Djokovic to raise his game to break straight back. The 18-year-old world number 178, who needed a medical timeout to get some strapping on his thigh early in the match, was a man transformed, however, and kept up his level to even up the contest in the tiebreak with his third set point. ALSO READ: Boston Celtics continue unbeaten run at home with win over Houston Rockets That merely set the tone for an enthralling third set in which 36-year-old Djokovic was put under intense pressure by his athletic opponent, making 20 unforced errors and facing six break points. Djokovic broke Prizmic at the start but the teenager kept ripping huge forehands and stayed with the world number one in several rallies to put the match back on serve before breaking again for a 3-2 lead after a 15-minute battle of a game. It had been six years and 28 matches since Djokovic last lost a match at the Australian Open and he was not going to put that record at risk easily. He regrouped, changed his shirt and won the next four games to take the set, pumping his fist and letting out a huge roar in a tribute to the problems Prizmic had caused him. More than three hours of playing with one of the best players of all time started to take its toll on Prizmic and Djokovic drove home his advantage to take his 90th win at the Australian Open in just over four hours. The next challenge to Djokovic's bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title will come from one of two Australians, Alexei Popyrin or Marc Polmans.

Australian Open 2024: Novak Djokovic begins title defence with first-round win over teenager Dino Prizmic

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday. The figure is an increase of more than $1.4 million from the previous year, with most of the additional money going to singles players competing in qualifying through second rounds.

"Each year, we evaluate every aspect of our event – from prize money to scheduling to amenities and facilities – to ensure a top-tier experience for players and fans," said Steve Christian, CEO of the BNP Paribas Open, the tournament's official title. "This year, we are proud to be dedicating record prize money, and are highly focused on compensating all of the players competing in the BNP Paribas Open."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-sumit-nagal-step-closer-to-main-draw-after-dominating-win-over-edward-winter-679073">Australian Open 2024: Sumit Nagal steps closer to main draw after dominating win over Edward Winter</a>

The tournament is also switching up its schedule and will feature its first all quarter-final day on March 14, when all eight quarter-final matches will be played. The annual event in the Southern California desert near Palm Springs is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, who also owns the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Last month, players voted it the ATP Masters and WTA 1000 Tournament of the Year for an unprecedented ninth straight time, and more than 450,000 fans attended the 2023 edition. Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are defending champions at the tournament, which runs from March 6-17 this year.

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday.

The Indian Wells tournament in March will offer a total of $19 million in prize money, the most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event, organizers said on Thursday. The figure is an increase of more than $1.4 million from the previous year, with most of the additional money going to singles players competing in qualifying through second rounds. "Each year, we evaluate every aspect of our event – from prize money to scheduling to amenities and facilities – to ensure a top-tier experience for players and fans," said Steve Christian, CEO of the BNP Paribas Open, the tournament's official title. "This year, we are proud to be dedicating record prize money, and are highly focused on compensating all of the players competing in the BNP Paribas Open." Also read: Australian Open 2024: Sumit Nagal steps closer to main draw after dominating win over Edward Winter The tournament is also switching up its schedule and will feature its first all quarter-final day on March 14, when all eight quarter-final matches will be played. The annual event in the Southern California desert near Palm Springs is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison, who also owns the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Last month, players voted it the ATP Masters and WTA 1000 Tournament of the Year for an unprecedented ninth straight time, and more than 450,000 fans attended the 2023 edition. Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are defending champions at the tournament, which runs from March 6-17 this year.

Tennis: Indian Wells increases prize money to $19 million, most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event

Sumit Nagal attained a significant feat, on Friday (Jan 12), by entering the main draw of the Australian Open 2024 edition -- which gets underway on Jan 14 -- with a straight-set win over Slovakia's Alex Molcan, 6-4, 6-4, in the final qualifier. With this, Nagal is now set to make his second appearance at the Aus Open after 2021 (where he bowed out in the first round).

Currently ranked 139 in the world singles rankings, Nagal is not new to grand stages of tennis. Earlier, he appeared in the main draw of the US Open twice, in 2019 -- where he won a set against Roger Federer -- and 2020. He was also part of the main draw of the Aus Open once in 2021, losing to&nbsp;Lithuania's&nbsp;Ričardas Berankis (2-6, 5-7, 3-6).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indian-wells-increases-prize-money-to-19-million-most-of-any-combined-wta-and-atp-masters-1000-event-679169">Tennis: Indian Wells increases prize money to $19 million, most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event</a>

Talking about the match versus Molcan, Nagal had form on his side with two back-to-back wins heading into the final qualifier. He was in the lead in the opening set but faced a late comeback from the Slovakian. However, the 26-year-old Indian star didn't concede the momentum and won it 6-4. In the second set, Nagal once again took the lead before the game got tougher in the latter half. Eventually, Nagal won it 6-4, courtesy of his aces and&nbsp;effective&nbsp;serves, to proceed to the main draw of the showpiece event in Melbourne.&nbsp;

Nagal will be eager to&nbsp;make a strong statement in the men's singles in the main draw of the Aus Open, which includes some big contenders such as Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner, etc.&nbsp;

Sumit Nagal attained a significant feat, on Friday (Jan 12), by entering the main draw of the Australian Open 2024 edition -- which gets underway on Jan 14 -- with a straight-set win over Slovakia's Alex Molcan, 6-4, 6-4, in the final qualifier.

Sumit Nagal attained a significant feat, on Friday (Jan 12), by entering the main draw of the Australian Open 2024 edition -- which gets underway on Jan 14 -- with a straight-set win over Slovakia's Alex Molcan, 6-4, 6-4, in the final qualifier. With this, Nagal is now set to make his second appearance at the Aus Open after 2021 (where he bowed out in the first round). Currently ranked 139 in the world singles rankings, Nagal is not new to grand stages of tennis. Earlier, he appeared in the main draw of the US Open twice, in 2019 -- where he won a set against Roger Federer -- and 2020. He was also part of the main draw of the Aus Open once in 2021, losing to Lithuania's Ričardas Berankis (2-6, 5-7, 3-6). Also read: Tennis: Indian Wells increases prize money to $19 million, most of any combined WTA and ATP Masters 1000 event Talking about the match versus Molcan, Nagal had form on his side with two back-to-back wins heading into the final qualifier. He was in the lead in the opening set but faced a late comeback from the Slovakian. However, the 26-year-old Indian star didn't concede the momentum and won it 6-4. In the second set, Nagal once again took the lead before the game got tougher in the latter half. Eventually, Nagal won it 6-4, courtesy of his aces and effective serves, to proceed to the main draw of the showpiece event in Melbourne. Nagal will be eager to make a strong statement in the men's singles in the main draw of the Aus Open, which includes some big contenders such as Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner, etc.

Sumit Nagal enters main draw of Australian Open 2024 with straight-set win over Alex Molcan in final qualifier

Former world number five Jelena Ostapenko continued to build momentum ahead of the Australian Open by reaching the Adelaide International semi-finals with a 7-5 6-3 victory over Marta Kostyuk on Thursday. The 12th-ranked Latvian made her Grand Slam breakthrough by winning the 2017 French Open title and is starting to rediscover her top form for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open, where she will begin her campaign against local hope Kimberley Birrell.

Brisbane quarter-finalist Ostapenko edged an intense opening set against Ukrainian Kostyuk and raised her level again in the next after dropping serve, as she broke to go ahead 3-1. There was no looking back from there as Ostapenko settled the contest in style to reach the last-four, where the 26-year-old faces the winner of the clash between Elena Rybakina and Ekaterina Alexandrova.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sloane-stephens-ousted-in-hobart-jelena-ostapenko-beats-sorana-cirstea-in-adelaide-678139">Sloane Stephens ousted in Hobart, Jelena Ostapenko beats Sorana Cirstea in Adelaide</a>

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova later takes on second seed Jessica Pegula in the other quarter-final of the warm-up event. Russia's Daria Kasatkina is already through after receiving a walkover from Laura Siegemund. In the men's draw, 2023 Australian Open quarter-finalist Sebastian Korda progressed with a comfortable 6-4 6-4 win over local favourite Christopher O'Connell.

At the Auckland Classic, top seed Ben Shelton advanced to the semi-finals with a 6-4 6-3 victory over Roberto Carballes Baena and will next take on Taro Daniel who beat Alexandre Muller 6-4 6-7(3) 6-3. Briton Cameron Norrie pulled out of his clash with Alejandro Tabilo after the second seed sustained a wrist injury.

Former world number five Jelena Ostapenko continued to build momentum ahead of the Australian Open by reaching the Adelaide International semi-finals with a 7-5 6-3 victory over Marta Kostyuk on Thursday.

Former world number five Jelena Ostapenko continued to build momentum ahead of the Australian Open by reaching the Adelaide International semi-finals with a 7-5 6-3 victory over Marta Kostyuk on Thursday. The 12th-ranked Latvian made her Grand Slam breakthrough by winning the 2017 French Open title and is starting to rediscover her top form for the Jan. 14-28 Australian Open, where she will begin her campaign against local hope Kimberley Birrell. Brisbane quarter-finalist Ostapenko edged an intense opening set against Ukrainian Kostyuk and raised her level again in the next after dropping serve, as she broke to go ahead 3-1. There was no looking back from there as Ostapenko settled the contest in style to reach the last-four, where the 26-year-old faces the winner of the clash between Elena Rybakina and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Also read: Sloane Stephens ousted in Hobart, Jelena Ostapenko beats Sorana Cirstea in Adelaide Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova later takes on second seed Jessica Pegula in the other quarter-final of the warm-up event. Russia's Daria Kasatkina is already through after receiving a walkover from Laura Siegemund. In the men's draw, 2023 Australian Open quarter-finalist Sebastian Korda progressed with a comfortable 6-4 6-4 win over local favourite Christopher O'Connell. At the Auckland Classic, top seed Ben Shelton advanced to the semi-finals with a 6-4 6-3 victory over Roberto Carballes Baena and will next take on Taro Daniel who beat Alexandre Muller 6-4 6-7(3) 6-3. Briton Cameron Norrie pulled out of his clash with Alejandro Tabilo after the second seed sustained a wrist injury.

Tennis: Former world number five Jelena Ostapenko marches into Adelaide semi-finals

Sloane Stephens's Australian Open buildup suffered a blow after the former Flushing Meadows champion lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(5) to China's Yuan Yue in the first round of the Hobart International on Tuesday. The duo slugged it out for nearly three hours before the Chinese world number 73 clinched the third set tie-break for a memorable victory. Having split the first two sets, Yuan broke Stephens when the American was serving for the match at 6-5. Stephens led 5-4 in the tie-break but could not hold on to her advantage and crashed out.

"I'm very happy and excited to win," a beaming Yuan. "She's a Grand Slam champion. At home, I'd (often) watch her play on the TV. I'm happy to be here (playing against her)," she said of her opponent.

Former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin began her campaign at the Melbourne Park warm-up event with a 6-3 6-3 win against Greet Minnen of Belgium. Kenin, who saved all three break points she faced in the match, will meet Daria Saville for a spot in the quarter-finals. In the first round of the Adelaide International, sixth seed Jelena Ostapenko came back from a sluggish start to beat Sorana Cirstea 2-6 6-2 6-4.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-ankita-raina-edges-closer-to-main-draw-after-thrilling-win-over-jessica-maneiro-in-qualifiers-678067">Australian Open: Ankita Raina edges closer to main draw after thrilling win over Jessica Maneiro in qualifiers</a>

Ostapenko, a quarter-finalist at last week's Brisbane International, needed nearly two hours to settle the match at the Australian Open tune-up event, enjoying a modicum of revenge after the Romanian beat her at Wimbledon last year. Cirstea won four games in a row to race through the opening set but former French Open champion Ostapenko hit back in the second and fired back-to-back aces to force the decider.

The Latvian then raced to a 5-2 lead but was broken serving for the match. She blew two match points at 5-3 but went on to seal victory with her sixth ace. Laura Siegemund, who was part of the Germany team that won the United Cup title last week, upset world number 14 Liudmila Samsonova 6-7(1) 6-4 6-4.

Returning to the tour for the first time since last year's Wimbledon, Denis Shapovalov lost 6-4 6-2 to Sebastian Ofner at Auckland Classic.

Sloane Stephens's Australian Open buildup suffered a blow after the former Flushing Meadows champion lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(5) to China's Yuan Yue in the first round of the Hobart International on Tuesday.

Sloane Stephens's Australian Open buildup suffered a blow after the former Flushing Meadows champion lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(5) to China's Yuan Yue in the first round of the Hobart International on Tuesday. The duo slugged it out for nearly three hours before the Chinese world number 73 clinched the third set tie-break for a memorable victory. Having split the first two sets, Yuan broke Stephens when the American was serving for the match at 6-5. Stephens led 5-4 in the tie-break but could not hold on to her advantage and crashed out. "I'm very happy and excited to win," a beaming Yuan. "She's a Grand Slam champion. At home, I'd (often) watch her play on the TV. I'm happy to be here (playing against her)," she said of her opponent. Former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin began her campaign at the Melbourne Park warm-up event with a 6-3 6-3 win against Greet Minnen of Belgium. Kenin, who saved all three break points she faced in the match, will meet Daria Saville for a spot in the quarter-finals. In the first round of the Adelaide International, sixth seed Jelena Ostapenko came back from a sluggish start to beat Sorana Cirstea 2-6 6-2 6-4. Also read: Australian Open: Ankita Raina edges closer to main draw after thrilling win over Jessica Maneiro in qualifiers Ostapenko, a quarter-finalist at last week's Brisbane International, needed nearly two hours to settle the match at the Australian Open tune-up event, enjoying a modicum of revenge after the Romanian beat her at Wimbledon last year. Cirstea won four games in a row to race through the opening set but former French Open champion Ostapenko hit back in the second and fired back-to-back aces to force the decider. The Latvian then raced to a 5-2 lead but was broken serving for the match. She blew two match points at 5-3 but went on to seal victory with her sixth ace. Laura Siegemund, who was part of the Germany team that won the United Cup title last week, upset world number 14 Liudmila Samsonova 6-7(1) 6-4 6-4. Returning to the tour for the first time since last year's Wimbledon, Denis Shapovalov lost 6-4 6-2 to Sebastian Ofner at Auckland Classic.

Sloane Stephens ousted in Hobart, Jelena Ostapenko beats Sorana Cirstea in Adelaide

India’s Ankita Raina has taken a massive step towards the main draw of the Australian Open women’s singles after a thrilling win against Spain’s Jessica Maneiro on Tuesday (Jan 9). Raina, 30, is hoping to become the first Indian since Sania Mirza to book a place in the women’s singles draw. In a contest that went down the wire, the 30-year-old needed a third-set tiebreak to win 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (10-4). She will now face Sara Bejlek of Czech Republic who is seeded 22 in the women’s singles qualifiers.

<h2>Raina edges closer to the main draw</h2>

Renowned for a powerful first serve, the Indian ace did not waste time in stamping her authority on the match as she won the first set 6-4. Raina was superb with her baseline play and offered returned winners while she struggled with the rallies. In total she had four returned winners and won 70 percent of her first serves to make a positive start to the contest. On the flip side, Maneiro had 45 unforced errors which saw her end second best for the first hour of the match.

The second set though saw the Spanish teenage star mount a comeback as she broke Raina at the decisive stage to win 7-5. The Indian lost breakpoints as well and failed to impress in the absorbing weather of Melbourne. However, heading into the final she had the advantage of serving first.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-and-bayern-munich-legend-franz-beckenbauer-passes-away-at-78-677958">Germany’s World Cup winning captain Franz Beckenbauer passes away at 78</a>

<h2>Poor start to third set</h2>

Despite the serve advantage, Maneiro had the early breakthrough after she broke Raina in the first game of the decider. The Spaniard quickly rushed into a 3-1 lead in the final set while the first three games saw the break of serves. Having lost her serve three times, Maneiro was a game away from knocking out Raina when she led 5-3. However, following a strong show with a good forehand return and first serve, Raina managed to crawl her way back into the match and forced a tiebreak.

The tiebreaker also had a similar story, with the 30-year-old trailing 0-3 but managing to put in impressive shifts to win 10-3 in the decider.

The draws for the Australian Open will be made on Thursday (Jan 11) with Raina now needing two wins to book her place.

India’s Ankita Raina has taken a massive step towards the main draw of the Australian Open women’s singles after a thrilling win against Spain’s Jessica Maneiro on Tuesday (Jan 9).

India’s Ankita Raina has taken a massive step towards the main draw of the Australian Open women’s singles after a thrilling win against Spain’s Jessica Maneiro on Tuesday (Jan 9). Raina, 30, is hoping to become the first Indian since Sania Mirza to book a place in the women’s singles draw. In a contest that went down the wire, the 30-year-old needed a third-set tiebreak to win 6-4, 5-7, 7-6 (10-4). She will now face Sara Bejlek of Czech Republic who is seeded 22 in the women’s singles qualifiers. Raina edges closer to the main draw Renowned for a powerful first serve, the Indian ace did not waste time in stamping her authority on the match as she won the first set 6-4. Raina was superb with her baseline play and offered returned winners while she struggled with the rallies. In total she had four returned winners and won 70 percent of her first serves to make a positive start to the contest. On the flip side, Maneiro had 45 unforced errors which saw her end second best for the first hour of the match. The second set though saw the Spanish teenage star mount a comeback as she broke Raina at the decisive stage to win 7-5. The Indian lost breakpoints as well and failed to impress in the absorbing weather of Melbourne. However, heading into the final she had the advantage of serving first. ALSO READ | Germany’s World Cup winning captain Franz Beckenbauer passes away at 78 Poor start to third set Despite the serve advantage, Maneiro had the early breakthrough after she broke Raina in the first game of the decider. The Spaniard quickly rushed into a 3-1 lead in the final set while the first three games saw the break of serves. Having lost her serve three times, Maneiro was a game away from knocking out Raina when she led 5-3. However, following a strong show with a good forehand return and first serve, Raina managed to crawl her way back into the match and forced a tiebreak. The tiebreaker also had a similar story, with the 30-year-old trailing 0-3 but managing to put in impressive shifts to win 10-3 in the decider. The draws for the Australian Open will be made on Thursday (Jan 11) with Raina now needing two wins to book her place.

Australian Open: Ankita Raina edges closer to main draw after thrilling win over Jessica Maneiro in qualifiers

On Sunday (Jan 7), Rafael Nadal pulled out of the Australian Open 2024 edition, which gets underway on Jan 14 in Melbourne. Nadal suffered an injury during the Brisbane International during his&nbsp;quarter-final loss to Jordan Thompson. During the encounter, he suffered a&nbsp;muscle injury which dented his return ahead of the calendar year's first-ever Grand Slam event. The former world number one had recently made his competitive return to tennis in the Brisbane tournament after spending around a year away with an injury. In the 2023 Australian Open, Nadal suffered from a hip flexor problem&nbsp;and had been away since.

Nadal said in an emotional Instagram post, "Once I got to Melbourne, I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that's good news. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 set-matches. Therefore I'm flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest."

"I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months," the 37-year-old added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-rafael-nadal-pulls-out-of-australian-open-due-to-injury-suffered-in-brisbane-international-677438">Tennis: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Australian Open due to injury suffered in Brisbane International</a>

After Nadal's withdrawal, his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz reacted to his non-participation in the forthcoming Aus Open. Alcaraz wrote on Nadal's Instagram post, "We are waiting for you in the next Rafa tournament! Get well soon!"

With no Nadal, world number one Novak Djokovic, Alcaraz, etc. will be the top contenders to win the upcoming Grand Slam Down Under. In the last edition, Djokovic won the title; claiming his tenth triumph in the tournament history.&nbsp;

On Sunday (Jan 7), Rafael Nadal pulled out of the Australian Open 2024 edition, which gets underway on Jan 14 in Melbourne. Nadal suffered an injury during the Brisbane International during his quarter-final loss to Jordan Thompson.

On Sunday (Jan 7), Rafael Nadal pulled out of the Australian Open 2024 edition, which gets underway on Jan 14 in Melbourne. Nadal suffered an injury during the Brisbane International during his quarter-final loss to Jordan Thompson. During the encounter, he suffered a muscle injury which dented his return ahead of the calendar year's first-ever Grand Slam event. The former world number one had recently made his competitive return to tennis in the Brisbane tournament after spending around a year away with an injury. In the 2023 Australian Open, Nadal suffered from a hip flexor problem and had been away since. Nadal said in an emotional Instagram post, "Once I got to Melbourne, I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that's good news. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 set-matches. Therefore I'm flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest." "I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months," the 37-year-old added. Also read: Tennis: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Australian Open due to injury suffered in Brisbane International After Nadal's withdrawal, his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz reacted to his non-participation in the forthcoming Aus Open. Alcaraz wrote on Nadal's Instagram post, "We are waiting for you in the next Rafa tournament! Get well soon!" With no Nadal, world number one Novak Djokovic, Alcaraz, etc. will be the top contenders to win the upcoming Grand Slam Down Under. In the last edition, Djokovic won the title; claiming his tenth triumph in the tournament history.

Carlos Alcaraz shares heartfelt message after Rafael Nadal pulls out of Australian Open 2024

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