Tomas Berdych d&nbsp;Juan Martin Del Potro,&nbsp;6-3, 6-3, 6-2

Veteran Tomas Berdych reached the round of 16 for the 10th time at the Australian Open with a straight-sets win over Juan Martin Del Potro on Saturday.

The 32-year Czech eliminated the 12th-seeded Argentine 6-3, 6-3, 6-2&nbsp;in 2hr 16min on Hisense Arena.

Berdych, who has played in the semi-finals twice in Melbourne, will face Italian journeyman Fabio Fognini in their first Grand Slam match in Monday&#39;s fourth round.

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Czech-mate!<a href="https://twitter.com/tomasberdych?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tomasberdych</a> hits 52 winners to d 12th seed Juan Martin <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelPotro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelPotro</a> 6-3 6-3 6-2 and becomes the first ???????? man in the Open Era to reach the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> round of 16 for the 10th time. <a href="https://t.co/l98KT5Tfx9">pic.twitter.com/l98KT5Tfx9</a>
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Berdych served up 20 aces, broke serve seven times and hit 52 winners with 28 unforced errors.

&quot;I think I was well prepared and I stuck with my plan and I&#39;m glad as I can stand here as a winner today,&quot; Berdych said on court.

&quot;Juan Martin is a great competitor and I&#39;m glad he is back after all the injuries that he&#39;s had. Tennis was missing him and it&#39;s great that he&#39;s back.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-simona-survives-an-epic-rally-beats-lauren-davis-4-6-6-4-15-13-30125" target="_blank">Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-karolina-pliskova-madison-keys-enter-fourth-round-30123" target="_blank">Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova &amp; Madison Keys enter fourth round</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-hyeon-chung-beats-alexander-zverev-enters-r16-30148" target="_blank">Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angelique-kerber-outplays-maria-sharapova-to-reach-r16-30149" target="_blank">Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16</a>

&nbsp;

Berdych, who has played in the semi-finals twice in Melbourne, will face Italian Fabio Fognini in fourth round

Tomas Berdych d Juan Martin Del Potro, 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 Veteran Tomas Berdych reached the round of 16 for the 10th time at the Australian Open with a straight-sets win over Juan Martin Del Potro on Saturday. The 32-year Czech eliminated the 12th-seeded Argentine 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 in 2hr 16min on Hisense Arena. Berdych, who has played in the semi-finals twice in Melbourne, will face Italian journeyman Fabio Fognini in their first Grand Slam match in Monday's fourth round. Czech-mate!@tomasberdych hits 52 winners to d 12th seed Juan Martin #DelPotro 6-3 6-3 6-2 and becomes the first ???????? man in the Open Era to reach the #AusOpen round of 16 for the 10th time. pic.twitter.com/l98KT5Tfx9 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × Berdych served up 20 aces, broke serve seven times and hit 52 winners with 28 unforced errors. "I think I was well prepared and I stuck with my plan and I'm glad as I can stand here as a winner today," Berdych said on court. "Juan Martin is a great competitor and I'm glad he is back after all the injuries that he's had. Tennis was missing him and it's great that he's back." Australian Open: Simona survives epic rally, beats Lauren Davis 4-6, 6-4, 15-13 Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round Australian Open: Hyeon Chung beats Alexander Zverev, enters R16 Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16

Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16

Karolina Pliskova d&nbsp;Lucie Safarova,&nbsp;7-6 (8/6), 7-5

Karolina Pliskova defeated fellow Czech Lucie Safarova and enters fourth round of Australian Open women singles.

The sixth seed, looking to win her first Grand Slam, came through the tight match against her 29th seeded compatriot 7-6 (8/6), 7-5 in 1hr 37mins.

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Pumped up <a href="https://twitter.com/KaPliskova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KaPliskova</a>! 
 
She&#39;s just taken the first set 7-6(6) against countrywoman Lucie Safarova.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/i7LTthFB3R">pic.twitter.com/i7LTthFB3R</a>
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&quot;It was a tough match, it always is against Lucie,&quot; said Pliskova, who made the quarter-finals last year.

&quot;I&#39;m happy I held my serve in the last game, It&#39;s a good sign because my serve is the most important key for me.&quot;

Madison Keys d&nbsp;Ana Bogdan,&nbsp;6-3, 6-4

Madison Keys continued her serene progress through the Australian Open draw with a 6-3, 6-4 win over unseeded Ana Bogdan on Saturday.

&quot;I&#39;m really excited. I definitely feel I&#39;m playing well,&quot; said Keys, who was one of only three Americans to make the round of 32.

&quot;Ana played great today and made me play my best tennis,&quot; Keys added.

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Lock <a href="https://twitter.com/Madison_Keys?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Madison_Keys</a> in for 4R! ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/vPjotVhnwy">pic.twitter.com/vPjotVhnwy</a>
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The American will either face French eighth seed Caroline Garcia or Belarussian Alaksandra Sasnovich in the last 16.

&quot;Lindsay is amazing. We&#39;ve had three years together and she has taught me how to handle big moments like this,&quot; said Keys.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Karolina Pliskova defeated fellow Czech Lucie Safarova and enters fourth round of Australian Open women singles

Karolina Pliskova d Lucie Safarova, 7-6 (8/6), 7-5 Karolina Pliskova defeated fellow Czech Lucie Safarova and enters fourth round of Australian Open women singles. The sixth seed, looking to win her first Grand Slam, came through the tight match against her 29th seeded compatriot 7-6 (8/6), 7-5 in 1hr 37mins. Pumped up @KaPliskova! She's just taken the first set 7-6(6) against countrywoman Lucie Safarova.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/i7LTthFB3R — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × "It was a tough match, it always is against Lucie," said Pliskova, who made the quarter-finals last year. "I'm happy I held my serve in the last game, It's a good sign because my serve is the most important key for me." Madison Keys d Ana Bogdan, 6-3, 6-4 Madison Keys continued her serene progress through the Australian Open draw with a 6-3, 6-4 win over unseeded Ana Bogdan on Saturday. "I'm really excited. I definitely feel I'm playing well," said Keys, who was one of only three Americans to make the round of 32. "Ana played great today and made me play my best tennis," Keys added. Lock @Madison_Keys in for 4R! ????#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/vPjotVhnwy — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 20, 2018 × The American will either face French eighth seed Caroline Garcia or Belarussian Alaksandra Sasnovich in the last 16. "Lindsay is amazing. We've had three years together and she has taught me how to handle big moments like this," said Keys.

Australian Open: Karolina Pliskova & Madison Keys enter fourth round

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

The world number two from Denmark will face the unseeded Carla Suarez Navarro from Spain for a place in the semi-finals

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

Australian Open: Caroline Wozniacki books quarter-finals berth

Chung Hyeon d&nbsp;Tennys Sandgren,&nbsp;6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3

Unseeded Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean to reach a semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren at the Australian Open on Wednesday.

Ranked 58, he needed six match points before claiming a 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 win in 2hr 28min and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday&#39;s semi-final.

Chung is the first South Korean man or woman to reach the semi-finals at a Slam and the youngest at 21 since Russia&#39;s Marat Safin reached the last four in Melbourne in 2010.

The rising Korean star joins Briton Kyle Edmund as the first unseeded men&#39;s semi-finalists in Melbourne since Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in 2008.

Chung, who sensationally knocked out six-time champion Novak Djokovic in the fourth round after taking out Germany&#39;s world No.4 Alexander Zverev in the previous round, had a few nervy minutes before he sealed the victory.

In a tense 11-minute final game he claimed victory on his sixth match point after Sandgren threw everything at the South Korean in a bid to stay in the match.

&quot;First of all, thank you for the all the Korean fans here, in RLA. Also, thank you for the all the fans in Korea including my team in Korea, my friends there. I really appreciate you all.&quot;

&quot;In the last game at 40-0 up I was thinking what I had to do at the ceremony, something like that, and after the breakpoints, I was like, nothing to do with ceremony, but just keep playing, stay focused,&quot; Chung said on the court in his limited English.

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Moving Hyeon. 
 
No wiping that smile from Chung&#39;s face!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/XGXTyvSdrS">pic.twitter.com/XGXTyvSdrS</a>
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Asked who he wanted to face in the semi-final, Federer or Berdych, Chung replied diplomatically with a smile: &quot;It&#39;s 50-50.&quot;

The defeat ended an extraordinary tournament for the 97th-ranked Sandgren, who had not won at a Grand Slam before winning four matches here, including upsets of former winner Stan Wawrinka and fifth seed Dominic Thiem.

Chung jumped out of the blocks with an early break before taking the opening set in 37 minutes, serving at a high 85 percent.

He was playing on the baseline, taking time away from the American and controlling the points.

Chung broke in the opening game of the second set with a delightful backhand across the net taking the line. But Sandgren began to get more into the contest and broke back in the fourth when Chung&#39;s forehand was wide.

Sandgren broke again in the eighth and was serving for the second set before he was broken with a netted forehand.

Chung maintained his level in the tiebreaker, getting to set point before he forced a Sandgren forehand long.

Chung broke in the fourth game of the final set and but temporarily his victory charge was stalled before he got home on his sixth match point.

&nbsp;

Chung is the first South Korean man or woman to reach the semi-finals at a Grand Slam

Chung Hyeon d Tennys Sandgren, 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 Unseeded Chung Hyeon became the first South Korean to reach a semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren at the Australian Open on Wednesday. Ranked 58, he needed six match points before claiming a 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 win in 2hr 28min and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday's semi-final. Chung is the first South Korean man or woman to reach the semi-finals at a Slam and the youngest at 21 since Russia's Marat Safin reached the last four in Melbourne in 2010. The rising Korean star joins Briton Kyle Edmund as the first unseeded men's semi-finalists in Melbourne since Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in 2008. Chung, who sensationally knocked out six-time champion Novak Djokovic in the fourth round after taking out Germany's world No.4 Alexander Zverev in the previous round, had a few nervy minutes before he sealed the victory. In a tense 11-minute final game he claimed victory on his sixth match point after Sandgren threw everything at the South Korean in a bid to stay in the match. "First of all, thank you for the all the Korean fans here, in RLA. Also, thank you for the all the fans in Korea including my team in Korea, my friends there. I really appreciate you all." "In the last game at 40-0 up I was thinking what I had to do at the ceremony, something like that, and after the breakpoints, I was like, nothing to do with ceremony, but just keep playing, stay focused," Chung said on the court in his limited English. Moving Hyeon. No wiping that smile from Chung's face!#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/XGXTyvSdrS — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2018 × Asked who he wanted to face in the semi-final, Federer or Berdych, Chung replied diplomatically with a smile: "It's 50-50." The defeat ended an extraordinary tournament for the 97th-ranked Sandgren, who had not won at a Grand Slam before winning four matches here, including upsets of former winner Stan Wawrinka and fifth seed Dominic Thiem. Chung jumped out of the blocks with an early break before taking the opening set in 37 minutes, serving at a high 85 percent. He was playing on the baseline, taking time away from the American and controlling the points. Chung broke in the opening game of the second set with a delightful backhand across the net taking the line. But Sandgren began to get more into the contest and broke back in the fourth when Chung's forehand was wide. Sandgren broke again in the eighth and was serving for the second set before he was broken with a netted forehand. Chung maintained his level in the tiebreaker, getting to set point before he forced a Sandgren forehand long. Chung broke in the fourth game of the final set and but temporarily his victory charge was stalled before he got home on his sixth match point.

Australian Open: Unseeded Chung Hyeon enters semi-final

Roger Federer v Tomas Berdych

Federer&nbsp;is looking forward to booking a berth in the semi-final of Australian Open. He is set ready to face Tomas Berdych.

&quot;I&#39;m looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I&#39;m happy he&#39;s over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year,&quot; said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title.

Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday&#39;s semi-final.&nbsp;

Here are match facts:

Head-to-heads: Federer leads 19-6

Fast&nbsp;facts

Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017)

Berdych: Age - 32; World ranking - 20; Prize money - $28,232,533; Career titles - 13; Grand Slam titles - 0;&nbsp;Australian Open&nbsp;best - Semi-final (2014, 2015)

Path to quarter-final

Federer

1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3

2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4)

3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4

4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 &nbsp;

Berdych

1st rd: bt Alex de Minaur (AUS) 6-3, 3-6, 6-0, 6-1

2nd rd: bt Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3

3rd rd: bt Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG x12) 6-3, 6-3, 6-2

4th rd: bt Fabio Fognini (ITA x25) 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

&nbsp;

Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday's semi-final

Roger Federer v Tomas Berdych Federer is looking forward to booking a berth in the semi-final of Australian Open. He is set ready to face Tomas Berdych. "I'm looking forward to playing against him. He seems in good shape and I'm happy he's over the back issues that he also had at the end of last year," said Federer, who is targeting a 20th Grand Slam title. Unseeded Chung Hyeon has already reached the semi-final at a Grand Slam with a dominant straight-sets win over American Tennys Sandgren and will face either defending champion Roger Federer or Tomas Berdych in Friday's semi-final. Here are match facts: Head-to-heads: Federer leads 19-6 Fast facts Federer: Age - 36; World ranking - 2; Prize money - $111,885,682; Career titles - 95; Grand Slam titles - 19; Australian Open best - Winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017) Berdych: Age - 32; World ranking - 20; Prize money - $28,232,533; Career titles - 13; Grand Slam titles - 0; Australian Open best - Semi-final (2014, 2015) Path to quarter-final Federer 1st rd: bt Aljaz Bedene (SLO) 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 2nd rd: bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) 3rd rd: bt Richard Gasquet (FRA x29) 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 4th rd: bt Marton Fucsovics (HUN) 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 Berdych 1st rd: bt Alex de Minaur (AUS) 6-3, 3-6, 6-0, 6-1 2nd rd: bt Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3 3rd rd: bt Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG x12) 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 4th rd: bt Fabio Fognini (ITA x25) 6-1, 6-4, 6-4

Australian Open: Roger Federer vs Tomas Berdych, some match facts

Angelique Kerber d&nbsp;Maria Sharapova,&nbsp;6-1, 6-3

Angelique Kerber defeated Maria Sharapova in straight sets to enter the round of 16.

It was a battle of former champions at the Australian Open.

Angie looked in a hurry and had taken the first set 6-1 in just 30 minutes.

&quot;I was just trying to enjoy every point,&quot; said Kerber after snuffing out Sharapova&#39;s hopes in only her second Grand Slam tournament back since serving a 15-month doping ban.

&ldquo;I have so many great memories from this court (Rod Laver Arena) &hellip; This court is so special for me and with you guys, it&rsquo;s even more special,&rdquo; Angie said after the match.

&quot;I knew before the match it would be a tough one.&quot;&nbsp;

&quot;Everybody who knows me knows that I never give up,&quot; she added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tomas-berdych-rallies-past-del-potro-to-reach-last-16-30151" target="_blank">Australian Open: Tomas Berdych rallies past Del Potro to reach last 16</a>

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&quot;Everybody who knows me know that I never give up.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a> is BACK! 
 
She will play the winner of Su-Wei <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hsieh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hsieh</a> and Agnieszka <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Radwanska?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Radwanska</a> in the 4R.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ss6AnvKZh0">pic.twitter.com/Ss6AnvKZh0</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/954653112299499520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 2016 winner from Germany and 21st seed roared past the Russian 2008 champion 6-1, 6-3 in 64 minutes on Rod Laver Arena on Saturday making 12 wins in a row in 2018.

With this&nbsp;victory, the 2016 champion sends a message to the rest of the tournament.

Kerber will face either 26th seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland or Taiwan&#39;s Hsieh Su-wei for a place in the quarter-finals.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a> must have a dinner reservation... ⌚️ 
 
Takes the first set 6-1 in under 30 minutes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/LfklLIJnXb">pic.twitter.com/LfklLIJnXb</a>
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&nbsp;

Kerber will face either 26th seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland or Taiwan's Hsieh Su-wei for a place in the quarter-finals

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

Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Maria Sharapova to reach R16

Angelique Kerber d&nbsp;Madison Keys,&nbsp;Madison Keys

Well deserved Angie!!!

Angelique Kerber entered the semi-finals of the Australian Open with a 6-1, 6-2 demolition of US Open finalist Madison Keys on Wednesday&nbsp;on Rod Laver Arena.

The German 21st seed took just 51 minutes to crush the American 17th seed and will face either world number one Simona Halep or sixth seed Karolina Pliskova for a place in Saturday&#39;s final.

Madison Keys&nbsp;lost many chances in the first set and&nbsp;opened with two double faults and from there itself, Kerber led the game and brushed Keys away in a one-sided game.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
&ldquo;I love to play here, there&rsquo;s so many great memories&hellip; I&rsquo;m just happy to get through and make the semis again here.&rdquo;⁰⁰ 
 
- <a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a>. Can anyone stop her? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/f4nyBfaRgr">pic.twitter.com/f4nyBfaRgr</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/955972437933371392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

&ldquo;I love to play here, there are so many great memories&hellip; I&rsquo;m just happy to get through and make the semis again here.&rdquo;

&quot;It&#39;s always tough to play against Madison,&quot; said Kerber, who also won the US Open in 2016.

&quot;She is hitting the ball so hard and I was just trying from the beginning, like I played the whole week, just to play my game.&nbsp;

&quot;I love playing in Australia and on Rod Laver Arena. I have so many good memories here.&quot;

&quot;I&#39;m just happy to get through and be here in the semis.&quot;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Back where she belongs.<a href="https://twitter.com/AngeliqueKerber?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AngeliqueKerber</a> will return to the top 10 at the end of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> 2018. <a href="https://t.co/2Rqt8Yhf2q">pic.twitter.com/2Rqt8Yhf2q</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/955975578724679680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Kerber will face either world number one Simona Halep or sixth seed Karolina Pliskova for a place in Saturday's final

Angelique Kerber d Madison Keys, Madison Keys Well deserved Angie!!! Angelique Kerber entered the semi-finals of the Australian Open with a 6-1, 6-2 demolition of US Open finalist Madison Keys on Wednesday on Rod Laver Arena. The German 21st seed took just 51 minutes to crush the American 17th seed and will face either world number one Simona Halep or sixth seed Karolina Pliskova for a place in Saturday's final. Madison Keys lost many chances in the first set and opened with two double faults and from there itself, Kerber led the game and brushed Keys away in a one-sided game. “I love to play here, there’s so many great memories… I’m just happy to get through and make the semis again here.”⁰⁰ - @AngeliqueKerber. Can anyone stop her? #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/f4nyBfaRgr — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2018 × “I love to play here, there are so many great memories… I’m just happy to get through and make the semis again here.” "It's always tough to play against Madison," said Kerber, who also won the US Open in 2016. "She is hitting the ball so hard and I was just trying from the beginning, like I played the whole week, just to play my game. "I love playing in Australia and on Rod Laver Arena. I have so many good memories here." "I'm just happy to get through and be here in the semis." Back where she belongs.@AngeliqueKerber will return to the top 10 at the end of #AusOpen 2018. pic.twitter.com/2Rqt8Yhf2q — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2018 ×

Australian Open: Angelique Kerber outplays Madison Keys, races to semi-final

WION&#39;s pick of the week

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-amid-political-tensions-peace-olympics-begins-683">In Pics: Amid political tensions, &#39;peace&#39; Olympics begins</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/manchester-men-remembers-munich-massacre-673">Manchester United &amp; fans remember Munich massacre</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/valentines-day-foils-david-beckham-other-plans-31966">Valentine&#39;s day foils David Beckham &#39;other&#39; plans</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Winter Olympics</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-norway-lead-the-medal-tally-at-23rd-winter-games-32548">Germany, Norway lead medals tally in Winter Games</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pyeongchang-2018-winter-olympics-hit-by-cyber-attack-source-not-revealed-32496">Pyeongchang 2018: Winter Olympics hit by cyber attack, source not revealed</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/trump-and-kim-appeared-at-opening-ceremony-of-winter-olympics-32393">&#39;Trump&#39; and &#39;Kim&#39; appeared at opening ceremony of Winter Olympics</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-shiva-keshavan-marks-last-appearance-at-winter-olympics-32414">Watch: Shiva Keshavan marks last appearance at Winter Olympics</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pita-taufatofua-dual-olympian-to-watch-out-for-32336">Watch: Pita Taufatofua returns to Winter Olympics with different game</a> 
&nbsp;

<big>Cricket</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistani-cricketer-salman-butt-to-play-in-bangladesh-31975">Former Pakistani cricketer, Salman Butt to play in Bangladesh</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wion-exclusive-prithvi-shaw-shares-memories-of-u-19-world-cup-31987">Will get opportunities, just need to grab them: U-19 captain Prithvi Shaw tells WION</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/unstoppable-kohli-hits-34th-odi-ton-takes-india-to-3036-32131">3rd ODI: Unstoppable Kohli hits </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/unstoppable-kohli-hits-34th-odi-ton-takes-india-to-3036-32131">34th</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/unstoppable-kohli-hits-34th-odi-ton-takes-india-to-3036-32131"> ton, takes India to 303/6</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-what-sehwag-said-to-afridi-while-playing-cricket-on-ice-32309">Here is what Sehwag said to Afridi while playing cricket on ice</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pepsicos-ceo-indra-nooyi-appointed-icc-first-independent-female-director-32322">ICC appoints Indra Nooyi as its first independent female director</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-legacy-of-winning-in-pink-continues-32463">South African legacy of winning in &#39;pink&#39; continues</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Football</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fc-bayern-youth-cup-army-public-school-set-to-represent-india-at-allianz-arena-munich-31852">FC Bayern Youth Cup: Army Public school set to represent India at Allianz Arena, Munich</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/messis-best-buddy-might-leave-barca-in-summers-32332">Messi&#39;s best buddy might leave Barca in summers</a>

&nbsp;

<big>Others</big>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-eagles-upset-patriots-41-33-to-win-super-bowl-31806">NFL: Eagles upset Patriots 41-33 to win Super Bowl</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (February 5 to February 11)

WION's pick of the week In Pics: Amid political tensions, 'peace' Olympics begins Manchester United & fans remember Munich massacre Valentine's day foils David Beckham 'other' plans Winter Olympics Germany, Norway lead medals tally in Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018: Winter Olympics hit by cyber attack, source not revealed 'Trump' and 'Kim' appeared at opening ceremony of Winter Olympics Watch: Shiva Keshavan marks last appearance at Winter Olympics Watch: Pita Taufatofua returns to Winter Olympics with different game Cricket Former Pakistani cricketer, Salman Butt to play in Bangladesh Will get opportunities, just need to grab them: U-19 captain Prithvi Shaw tells WION 3rd ODI: Unstoppable Kohli hits 34th ton, takes India to 303/6 Here is what Sehwag said to Afridi while playing cricket on ice ICC appoints Indra Nooyi as its first independent female director South African legacy of winning in 'pink' continues Football FC Bayern Youth Cup: Army Public school set to represent India at Allianz Arena, Munich Messi's best buddy might leave Barca in summers Others NFL: Eagles upset Patriots 41-33 to win Super Bowl

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

Former world number one Serena Williams said she felt on the &quot;right track&quot; despite a crushing loss in her long-awaited comeback to tennis on Sunday playing alongside big sister Venus in a Fed Cup dead rubber.

The duo, who have combined to win 22 doubles titles, was outgunned by the unheralded Dutch pairing of Lesley Kerkhove and Demi Schuurs who were playing in their first ever outing together.&nbsp;

The Williams lost 6-2, 6-3 with 36-year-old Serena appearing particularly slow on her feet and poor in her shot selection after more than a year away from the&nbsp;sport.

But she was determined to put on a brave face after the loss took some of the shine off the Americans&#39; otherwise decisive 3-1 win that booked their place in the next round against France in April.

&quot;It felt really good to be back the court. I&#39;ve been training and it was just exciting to be out there,&quot; she said.

&quot;I honestly feel better than I thought I was gonna feel, I feel like I didn&#39;t expect to play you know like that for me. So I feel like that I&#39;m on the right track.&quot;

It was Serena&#39;s first competitive match since winning her 23rd major at the 2017 Australian Open.

The American star took time away from the&nbsp;sport&nbsp;to give birth to her daughter Alexis Olympia and get married, to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian.&nbsp;

Both were in attendance over the weekend, seated just behind the players&#39; box.

Serena had previously said that her path back had been full of &quot;ups and downs&quot;, crediting Venus with helping her regain her rhythm.

On Sunday she was happy with the power behind her shots even if her accuracy wasn&#39;t quite where it should be.

&quot;I didn&#39;t expect to have that much power on my serves,&quot; she said. &quot;Even though they didn&#39;t go in, it&#39;s just the start, I feel like that&#39;s a very good step in the right direction.&quot;

And she hinted she needed to juggle the demands of motherhood against her career better.

&quot;I didn&#39;t manage my time well,&quot; she said. &quot;This is literally my first time traveling with the baby and everything so I&#39;m gonna try to do better.&quot;

Home crowd support

There had been speculation Serena may drop out of Sunday&#39;s doubles match, after she did not turn up for practice in the morning with the three other US players.

But team captain Kathy Rinaldi confirmed her participation after Venus won her singles match against Richel Hogenkamp to seal an overall victory for the US.

&quot;Serena&#39;s gonna be joining her sister Venus!&quot; she announced, to roars of approval before Williams appeared dressed in a white top, dark blue shorts topped off with a red headband.

The Americans had enjoyed enormous support all weekend from the sold-out 5,200-capacity crowd in the mountainous city of Asheville, North Carolina, famous for its historic architecture, breweries and vibrant art scene.

The dead-rubber was supposed to be the feel-good, icing on the cake, but the Dutch players had other ideas.

&quot;To play the two Williams sisters, it&#39;s amazing because we won the match,&quot; said Kerkhove, 26.

&quot;We knew it just 30 minutes before the match. We just both gave it our all and we just had nothing to lose.&quot;

The Dutch players&#39; ability to soak up the pressure was all the more remarkable given that Schuurs, the younger of the pair, was just six-years-old when Serena won her first major tournament.&nbsp;

Venus&#39; participation meant there was no room for Lauren Davis, the US&#39; fourth player.

The seven-time Grand Slam winner, who enjoyed a renaissance year in 2017, earlier shook off a scratchy start to prevail 7-5, 6-1 in her singles match, ensuring the US could continue their defence of the title.

More Fed Cup?

Ahead of the tie, Serena had refused to be drawn on her Grand Slam hopes for the year.

She had initially targeted last month&#39;s Australian Open and a defence of her 2017 title but struggled during an exhibition match against Jelena Ostapenko in Abu Dhabi in December, forcing her to revise her plans.

But she hinted Sunday she could make herself available for selection for the US&#39; next round clash in France in April.

&quot;I think ultimately it&#39;s up to Kathy, she has a plenty of players to chose from,&quot; she said, referring to team captain Kathy Rinaldi. &quot;So many Americans are doing great, hopefully, I&#39;ll be able to be an option, I&#39;ll be doing better by then,&quot; she said.

&nbsp;

Serena Williams suffered a crushing loss in her long-awaited comeback on Sunday playing alongside big sister Venus in a Fed Cup

Former world number one Serena Williams said she felt on the "right track" despite a crushing loss in her long-awaited comeback to tennis on Sunday playing alongside big sister Venus in a Fed Cup dead rubber. The duo, who have combined to win 22 doubles titles, was outgunned by the unheralded Dutch pairing of Lesley Kerkhove and Demi Schuurs who were playing in their first ever outing together. The Williams lost 6-2, 6-3 with 36-year-old Serena appearing particularly slow on her feet and poor in her shot selection after more than a year away from the sport. But she was determined to put on a brave face after the loss took some of the shine off the Americans' otherwise decisive 3-1 win that booked their place in the next round against France in April. "It felt really good to be back the court. I've been training and it was just exciting to be out there," she said. "I honestly feel better than I thought I was gonna feel, I feel like I didn't expect to play you know like that for me. So I feel like that I'm on the right track." It was Serena's first competitive match since winning her 23rd major at the 2017 Australian Open. The American star took time away from the sport to give birth to her daughter Alexis Olympia and get married, to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. Both were in attendance over the weekend, seated just behind the players' box. Serena had previously said that her path back had been full of "ups and downs", crediting Venus with helping her regain her rhythm. On Sunday she was happy with the power behind her shots even if her accuracy wasn't quite where it should be. "I didn't expect to have that much power on my serves," she said. "Even though they didn't go in, it's just the start, I feel like that's a very good step in the right direction." And she hinted she needed to juggle the demands of motherhood against her career better. "I didn't manage my time well," she said. "This is literally my first time traveling with the baby and everything so I'm gonna try to do better." Home crowd support There had been speculation Serena may drop out of Sunday's doubles match, after she did not turn up for practice in the morning with the three other US players. But team captain Kathy Rinaldi confirmed her participation after Venus won her singles match against Richel Hogenkamp to seal an overall victory for the US. "Serena's gonna be joining her sister Venus!" she announced, to roars of approval before Williams appeared dressed in a white top, dark blue shorts topped off with a red headband. The Americans had enjoyed enormous support all weekend from the sold-out 5,200-capacity crowd in the mountainous city of Asheville, North Carolina, famous for its historic architecture, breweries and vibrant art scene. The dead-rubber was supposed to be the feel-good, icing on the cake, but the Dutch players had other ideas. "To play the two Williams sisters, it's amazing because we won the match," said Kerkhove, 26. "We knew it just 30 minutes before the match. We just both gave it our all and we just had nothing to lose." The Dutch players' ability to soak up the pressure was all the more remarkable given that Schuurs, the younger of the pair, was just six-years-old when Serena won her first major tournament. Venus' participation meant there was no room for Lauren Davis, the US' fourth player. The seven-time Grand Slam winner, who enjoyed a renaissance year in 2017, earlier shook off a scratchy start to prevail 7-5, 6-1 in her singles match, ensuring the US could continue their defence of the title. More Fed Cup? Ahead of the tie, Serena had refused to be drawn on her Grand Slam hopes for the year. She had initially targeted last month's Australian Open and a defence of her 2017 title but struggled during an exhibition match against Jelena Ostapenko in Abu Dhabi in December, forcing her to revise her plans. But she hinted Sunday she could make herself available for selection for the US' next round clash in France in April. "I think ultimately it's up to Kathy, she has a plenty of players to chose from," she said, referring to team captain Kathy Rinaldi. "So many Americans are doing great, hopefully, I'll be able to be an option, I'll be doing better by then," she said.

Serena Williams faces a comeback defeat

Injured tennis star Sania Mirza says it will take her at least two more months to get battle ready and what frustrates her most during the rehab period is not the physical pain but the compulsory rest.

Sania, the winner of six Grand Slam titles, is out of action since October 2017 due to an injury in her right knee, forcing her to miss first Grand Slam of the season.

&quot;(It will take) a couple of more months. I don&#39;t want to get into technicalities of it but even if there was a surgery there is no guarantee that it is going to get better. It&#39;s basically pain that I need to manage,&quot; Sania said before kicking off tennis activities at Supertech Sports Village.

&quot;It got out of hand so I had to take time off. I could not take painkillers anymore. It is getting better. It&#39;s frustrating because you have to rest and do rehab.&quot;

The 31-year-old Hyderabadi was asked what was the most challenging part of the rehabilitation period.

&quot;Toughest thing is the mental part. Like it was difficult to watch Australian Open and not play. As an athlete when you are forced to do something, it&#39;s difficult to accept. When you retire by choice, it&#39;s different.

&quot;But it&#39;s not the first time that I am injured. I have had three surgeries before. As an athlete, I am used to that. It&#39;s mental more than the physical pain,&quot; she shared her frustration.

Sania, whose ranking has dipped to 14, is confident that missing out on tennis for about four months won&#39;t impact her adversely.

&quot;I turned Pro in 2003. It&#39;s a very demanding life away from family and loved ones in a hotel room. I had a pretty long career. Do I think that these four months are going to make a difference in my career? No, in a larger perspective. I have to take positives out of it,&quot; she said.

Reflecting on her 2017 season, during which she managed to win just one WTA title, compared to eight in 2016 and 10 in 2015, Sania rated it as a decent one.

&quot;As an athlete, we are always greedy. When we win 10, we want to win the 11th (title)and when we win one, we want to win three. When hunger is not there, you know it&#39;s time to retire. I still finished in top-10, it was a decent year. 2017 was a solid year but it can get better,&quot; Sania said.

Talking about the upcoming Fed Cup, beginning Wednesday at DLTA, Sania said Indian team has a tough task ahead. 
&quot;I will retire one day, they should get used to it a little bit (laughs). It&#39;s going to be tough matches as always. It will be a great experience for them, they are all young.&quot;

Asked if she sees herself playing the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia, she was non-committal.

&quot;The first Asian Games I played was in 2002 when I was 15. It&#39;s been really long, I would like to play another one if I can and win more medals. I have come back with medals every time I played. So it would be pretty amazing, but I can&#39;t look that far ahead, want to focus on my recovery.&quot;

On a philosophical note, Sania said playing a sport helps in becoming a better human being.

&quot;Sports is not just about becoming a champion. It&#39;s about learning way of life. Sport is about accepting defeat and handling victories. Just because I have a tennis academy back home and there is an academy here, that does not guarantee we are going to have world champions. But what you can guarantee is to be a better human being, sport teaches you that.&quot;

Sania also emphasised that for India to become a sporting a sports culture is required, where more and more people are playing.

&quot;Become a sporting nation, does not mean how many champions you have, it means how many people are playing a sport. When you go to Australia or America, every kid there plays whatever it is, baseball or football. Because they have so many in numbers playing, they have so many champions. It has got a lot better (in India) in the last few years.&quot;

Sania hit a few balls with kids at the tennis academy at Supertech Sports Village, which will take another five years to develop fully.

Spread in 175 acres, the village will have tennis, cricket, shooting and badminton academies in 70 percent area while residential properties will be developed in remaining 30 percent.

&nbsp;

Sania, the winner of six Grand Slam titles, is out of action since October 2017 due to an injury in her right knee, forcing her to miss first Grand Slam of the season

Injured tennis star Sania Mirza says it will take her at least two more months to get battle ready and what frustrates her most during the rehab period is not the physical pain but the compulsory rest. Sania, the winner of six Grand Slam titles, is out of action since October 2017 due to an injury in her right knee, forcing her to miss first Grand Slam of the season. "(It will take) a couple of more months. I don't want to get into technicalities of it but even if there was a surgery there is no guarantee that it is going to get better. It's basically pain that I need to manage," Sania said before kicking off tennis activities at Supertech Sports Village. "It got out of hand so I had to take time off. I could not take painkillers anymore. It is getting better. It's frustrating because you have to rest and do rehab." The 31-year-old Hyderabadi was asked what was the most challenging part of the rehabilitation period. "Toughest thing is the mental part. Like it was difficult to watch Australian Open and not play. As an athlete when you are forced to do something, it's difficult to accept. When you retire by choice, it's different. "But it's not the first time that I am injured. I have had three surgeries before. As an athlete, I am used to that. It's mental more than the physical pain," she shared her frustration. Sania, whose ranking has dipped to 14, is confident that missing out on tennis for about four months won't impact her adversely. "I turned Pro in 2003. It's a very demanding life away from family and loved ones in a hotel room. I had a pretty long career. Do I think that these four months are going to make a difference in my career? No, in a larger perspective. I have to take positives out of it," she said. Reflecting on her 2017 season, during which she managed to win just one WTA title, compared to eight in 2016 and 10 in 2015, Sania rated it as a decent one. "As an athlete, we are always greedy. When we win 10, we want to win the 11th (title)and when we win one, we want to win three. When hunger is not there, you know it's time to retire. I still finished in top-10, it was a decent year. 2017 was a solid year but it can get better," Sania said. Talking about the upcoming Fed Cup, beginning Wednesday at DLTA, Sania said Indian team has a tough task ahead. "I will retire one day, they should get used to it a little bit (laughs). It's going to be tough matches as always. It will be a great experience for them, they are all young." Asked if she sees herself playing the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia, she was non-committal. "The first Asian Games I played was in 2002 when I was 15. It's been really long, I would like to play another one if I can and win more medals. I have come back with medals every time I played. So it would be pretty amazing, but I can't look that far ahead, want to focus on my recovery." On a philosophical note, Sania said playing a sport helps in becoming a better human being. "Sports is not just about becoming a champion. It's about learning way of life. Sport is about accepting defeat and handling victories. Just because I have a tennis academy back home and there is an academy here, that does not guarantee we are going to have world champions. But what you can guarantee is to be a better human being, sport teaches you that." Sania also emphasised that for India to become a sporting a sports culture is required, where more and more people are playing. "Become a sporting nation, does not mean how many champions you have, it means how many people are playing a sport. When you go to Australia or America, every kid there plays whatever it is, baseball or football. Because they have so many in numbers playing, they have so many champions. It has got a lot better (in India) in the last few years." Sania hit a few balls with kids at the tennis academy at Supertech Sports Village, which will take another five years to develop fully. Spread in 175 acres, the village will have tennis, cricket, shooting and badminton academies in 70 percent area while residential properties will be developed in remaining 30 percent.

Injured Sania to be off court for at least two more months

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

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

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

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

Indian tennis star Leander Paes today regained his place in the top-50, courtesy Challenger title win at the Newport Beach event, as he jumped 14 places to 47 in the latest rankings, issued today.

Paes had partnered American James Cerretani for the Newport Beach tournament, which fetched him 125 ranking points. This week he is playing at the USD 125,000 Dallas event, for which he has partnered Briton Joe Salisbury.

41-year-old Leander Paes won his 25th ATP Challenger level doubles title with partner James Cerretani after beating Denis Kudla and Treat Huey in the final of the Newport Beach event.

Leander Paes has won crucial 125 points with this win as he is striving to move up the rankings ladder.

He had logged 90 points at the Australian Open, where he made the third round with compatriot Purav Raja.

Rohan Bopanna is India&#39;s top-ranked doubles player at number 20 after losing a place and is followed by left-hander Divij Sharan, who has gained three places to get to a career-best 45.

In the singles, Yuki Bhambri, who qualified for the main draw of the just-concluded Australian Open and lost in first round, gained eight places to be ranked 118.

Bhambri is followed by Ramkumar Ramanathan (140, +1), Sumit Nagal (218, -1), Prajnesh Gunneswran (244, +3) and N Sriram Balaji (391, +2).

Leander Paes had partnered American James Cerretani for the Newport Beach tournament, which fetched him 125 ranking points

Indian tennis star Leander Paes today regained his place in the top-50, courtesy Challenger title win at the Newport Beach event, as he jumped 14 places to 47 in the latest rankings, issued today. Paes had partnered American James Cerretani for the Newport Beach tournament, which fetched him 125 ranking points. This week he is playing at the USD 125,000 Dallas event, for which he has partnered Briton Joe Salisbury. 41-year-old Leander Paes won his 25th ATP Challenger level doubles title with partner James Cerretani after beating Denis Kudla and Treat Huey in the final of the Newport Beach event. Leander Paes has won crucial 125 points with this win as he is striving to move up the rankings ladder. He had logged 90 points at the Australian Open, where he made the third round with compatriot Purav Raja. Rohan Bopanna is India's top-ranked doubles player at number 20 after losing a place and is followed by left-hander Divij Sharan, who has gained three places to get to a career-best 45. In the singles, Yuki Bhambri, who qualified for the main draw of the just-concluded Australian Open and lost in first round, gained eight places to be ranked 118. Bhambri is followed by Ramkumar Ramanathan (140, +1), Sumit Nagal (218, -1), Prajnesh Gunneswran (244, +3) and N Sriram Balaji (391, +2).

Leander Paes back in top-50 after Newport Beach title win

Champion Roger Federer escaped the worst of the Melbourne heatwave but had to knuckle down to avoid getting burnt by feisty German Jan-Lennard Struff as he won 6-4 6-4 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

Looking as cool as a cucumber Federer glided through the opening two sets under the Rod Laver lights but was dragged into a scrap in the third as the 55th-ranked Struff went for broke.

The 36-year-old was momentarily knocked out of his stride when he slipped 3-1 down but broke back to take the set into a tiebreak on a steamy night.

Struff saved a match point with a searing backhand down the line but fell on the second when Federer crunched a huge serve into the corner.

Federer will meet French 29th seed Richard Gasquet for a place in the last 16 as he continues his bid for a 20th grand slam title.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-struggling-wawrinkas-early-exit-from-open-29988" target="_blank">Struggling Wawrinka struggles some more, loses to America&#39;s Sandgren</a>

Second seed Federer made no apologies for being scheduled to play during the evening session when the temperature, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, had dipped to more manageable levels.

&quot;We know it can be very hot here in Australia. I remember the days when we had four days of 40 degrees in a row a few years back. Now we got two,&quot; he said.

&quot;It&#39;s definitely a challenge. It&#39;s hard to prepare for that in some ways. But you know when you come down here that can happen. I&#39;m happy I played at nighttime. But I would back myself playing during the daytime also.&quot;

Federer broke the Struff serve in the fifth game when he ripped a forehand past the advancing German.

That proved enough to take the first set and he needed just one break, this time achieved with a rasping backhand pass, to claim the decisive break at 3-3 in the second.

Federer could never truly relax though and Struff broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set with some forceful tennis.

His advantage did not last long though as Federer replied in the next game and from then on Federer assumed control.

Federer glided through the opening two sets. The third was a scrap

Champion Roger Federer escaped the worst of the Melbourne heatwave but had to knuckle down to avoid getting burnt by feisty German Jan-Lennard Struff as he won 6-4 6-4 7-6(4) to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Thursday. Looking as cool as a cucumber Federer glided through the opening two sets under the Rod Laver lights but was dragged into a scrap in the third as the 55th-ranked Struff went for broke. The 36-year-old was momentarily knocked out of his stride when he slipped 3-1 down but broke back to take the set into a tiebreak on a steamy night. Struff saved a match point with a searing backhand down the line but fell on the second when Federer crunched a huge serve into the corner. Federer will meet French 29th seed Richard Gasquet for a place in the last 16 as he continues his bid for a 20th grand slam title. Also read: Struggling Wawrinka struggles some more, loses to America's Sandgren Second seed Federer made no apologies for being scheduled to play during the evening session when the temperature, which peaked at 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon, had dipped to more manageable levels. "We know it can be very hot here in Australia. I remember the days when we had four days of 40 degrees in a row a few years back. Now we got two," he said. "It's definitely a challenge. It's hard to prepare for that in some ways. But you know when you come down here that can happen. I'm happy I played at nighttime. But I would back myself playing during the daytime also." Federer broke the Struff serve in the fifth game when he ripped a forehand past the advancing German. That proved enough to take the first set and he needed just one break, this time achieved with a rasping backhand pass, to claim the decisive break at 3-3 in the second. Federer could never truly relax though and Struff broke for a 3-1 lead in the third set with some forceful tennis. His advantage did not last long though as Federer replied in the next game and from then on Federer assumed control.

Australian Open: Federer struts his stuff, then knuckles down to beat Germany's Struff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roger Federer&nbsp;is currently one of the favourites at the grand slam, Australian Open&nbsp;due to his spectacular performance&nbsp;at the Hopman Cup 2017.

Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic of Switzerland hoisted the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final.

The 36-year-old Swiss Also registered easy win in the first round of Australian Open by defeating Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne.

But recently Fed Express is trending due to a video which has gone viral on social media.

In one of the league stage matches of Hopman Cup, Federer&nbsp;ignored his partner&nbsp;Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent&nbsp;Jack Sock of the USA.

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Men will be men.... <a href="https://t.co/13dsIh3PVS">pic.twitter.com/13dsIh3PVS</a>
&mdash; Rishi Bagree ???????? (@rishibagree) <a href="https://twitter.com/rishibagree/status/952091874872840193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A minute-long clip from recently concluded Hopman Cup shows&nbsp;a game played between the male partners,&nbsp;Federer and&nbsp;Jack Sock from Switzerland and the United States.

Both the players, Federer and&nbsp;Jack Sock&nbsp;did something that made their female partners Bencic and&nbsp;CoCo Vandeweghe&nbsp;respectively, leave the court&nbsp;and sit on the bench.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Federer ignored his partner Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent Jack Sock of the USA for quite some time

Roger Federer is currently one of the favourites at the grand slam, Australian Open due to his spectacular performance at the Hopman Cup 2017. Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic of Switzerland hoisted the Hopman Cup after defeating Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber of Germany in the mixed doubles final. The 36-year-old Swiss Also registered easy win in the first round of Australian Open by defeating Bedene, 6-3 6-4 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne. But recently Fed Express is trending due to a video which has gone viral on social media. In one of the league stage matches of Hopman Cup, Federer ignored his partner Belinda Bencic and continued the rally with his opponent Jack Sock of the USA. Men will be men.... pic.twitter.com/13dsIh3PVS — Rishi Bagree ???????? (@rishibagree) January 13, 2018 × A minute-long clip from recently concluded Hopman Cup shows a game played between the male partners, Federer and Jack Sock from Switzerland and the United States. Both the players, Federer and Jack Sock did something that made their female partners Bencic and CoCo Vandeweghe respectively, leave the court and sit on the bench.

Watch: Federer, Jack Sock upset other two women players during match

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

Tsonga will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia's Viktor Troicki in the third round

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

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

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

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

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

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

Australia&#39;s volatile Nick Kyrgios&nbsp;accused of&nbsp;unsportsmanlike conduct during the first round match of Australian Open&nbsp;on Hisense Arena on Monday.

Kyrgios received a code violation for telling a loudmouth member of the crowd to &quot;shut the f*** up&quot;.

The 22-year-old was fined with a $3,000 penalty for using appropriative language&nbsp;in his 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win over Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva.

He also exchanged&nbsp;words with the chair umpire during the changeover after the Australian had taken the opening set for the loss of one game in just 28 minutes.

&quot;All you have to do is say &#39;please be quiet when the player is serving&#39;,&quot; Kyrgios told the umpire.

He played a flawless opening set but that didn&#39;t stop him from receiving a code violation early in the match.

&nbsp;

Kyrgios received a code violation for using inappropriate language during first round match

Australia's volatile Nick Kyrgios accused of unsportsmanlike conduct during the first round match of Australian Open on Hisense Arena on Monday. Kyrgios received a code violation for telling a loudmouth member of the crowd to "shut the f*** up". The 22-year-old was fined with a $3,000 penalty for using appropriative language in his 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win over Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva. He also exchanged words with the chair umpire during the changeover after the Australian had taken the opening set for the loss of one game in just 28 minutes. "All you have to do is say 'please be quiet when the player is serving'," Kyrgios told the umpire. He played a flawless opening set but that didn't stop him from receiving a code violation early in the match.

Nick Kyrgios found guilty of 'unsportsmanlike conduct', fined

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

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

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

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

Famously private couple pop star Enrique Iglesias and former tennis champ Anna Kournikova have finally shared an insider into their lives and it&#39;s adorable.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Enrique announced that he is now a father by sharing a photo of his toddler.&nbsp;

He captioned the post: &quot;My Sunshine&quot; while posing with the little one in a matching outfit.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeBN9DPlvT8/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">My Sunshine</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/enriqueiglesias/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Enrique Iglesias</a> (@enriqueiglesias) on <time datetime="2018-01-16T17:39:14+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 16, 2018 at 9:39am PST</time>
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The baby can be seen wearing a grey onesie while the father has put on a similar grey hoodie, snuggling up to the baby.&nbsp;

At the same time, new mother Anna also posted a photo of her baby while planting a kiss on the baby&#39;s cheek. She also captioned the post the same as Enrique.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BeBV2Cvgr2C/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">My Sunshine</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/annakournikova/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> ???? Anna ????Аня</a> (@annakournikova) on <time datetime="2018-01-16T18:48:11+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 16, 2018 at 10:48am PST</time>
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As per reports, the &quot;Hero&quot;&nbsp;hitmaker and his longtime girlfriend&nbsp;became parents to twins last month in December but kept it a secret. The twins have since been named Nicholas (boy) and Lucy (daughter). The babies were born in Miami, Florida.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-singer-enrique-iglesias-and-former-tennis-star-anna-kournikova-welcome-twins-27188" target="_blank">Also Read:&nbsp;Singer ‪Enrique Iglesias and former tennis star Anna Kournikova‬ welcome twins</a>

The couple did not respond to any rumours back then but have now shared pictures of the twins as they turn one month old.&nbsp;

Anna and Enrique have been dating since 2001 and have managed to keep away from the prying eyes of media. Their lives are so perfectly kept hidden, so much so, that Anna managed to keep her entire pregnancy under wraps until days after she gave birth.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As per reports, the famously private couple became parents to twins in December

Famously private couple pop star Enrique Iglesias and former tennis champ Anna Kournikova have finally shared an insider into their lives and it's adorable. On Tuesday, Enrique announced that he is now a father by sharing a photo of his toddler. He captioned the post: "My Sunshine" while posing with the little one in a matching outfit. My Sunshine A post shared by Enrique Iglesias (@enriqueiglesias) on Jan 16, 2018 at 9:39am PST × The baby can be seen wearing a grey onesie while the father has put on a similar grey hoodie, snuggling up to the baby. At the same time, new mother Anna also posted a photo of her baby while planting a kiss on the baby's cheek. She also captioned the post the same as Enrique. My Sunshine A post shared by ???? Anna ????Аня (@annakournikova) on Jan 16, 2018 at 10:48am PST × As per reports, the "Hero" hitmaker and his longtime girlfriend became parents to twins last month in December but kept it a secret. The twins have since been named Nicholas (boy) and Lucy (daughter). The babies were born in Miami, Florida. Also Read: Singer ‪Enrique Iglesias and former tennis star Anna Kournikova‬ welcome twins The couple did not respond to any rumours back then but have now shared pictures of the twins as they turn one month old. Anna and Enrique have been dating since 2001 and have managed to keep away from the prying eyes of media. Their lives are so perfectly kept hidden, so much so, that Anna managed to keep her entire pregnancy under wraps until days after she gave birth.

Enrique Iglesias‬, ‪Anna Kournikova‬‬ share adorable photos of newborn twins

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

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

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

Australian Open: Pliskova, Muguruza, Konta enter second round

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

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

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

Australian Open: Roger roars in round one

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

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

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

Australian Open: Milos Raonic crashes, drives out of Slam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Australian Open: Wawrinka, Zverev, Djokovic enter second round

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

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

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

Australian Open: Sharapova enters second round after beating Tatjana Maria

For the first time since 1997, &nbsp;Australian Open will be without Williams sisters. Serena Williams is already out following the birth of her daughter and Venus failed to qualify for the next round.

20-year-old <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-20-year-old-swiss-belinda-bencic-beats-venus-williams-in-first-round-29535" target="_blank">Belinda Bencic saw off seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams</a> in the first round of Australia Open in straight sets.

Bencic recently featured with 19-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer at the Hopman Cup. He gave her advice and tips to improve the game. She had received a huge confidence boost.

&quot;I think all the week it was so great learning from him on the court or off the court,&quot; Bencic said on Federer.

&quot;Even now, I think it&#39;s amazing he&#39;s giving me advice, trying to give me tips, help me, like, looking how I&#39;m doing. That feels great. I saw him after the match... he was very happy for me,&quot; she added.

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&quot;It feels amazing to have the chance to play against both because I never thought I would ever play against them when I was a little kid.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/BelindaBencic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BelindaBencic</a> on playing both Serena &amp; Venus.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/LNT9dQFRNF">pic.twitter.com/LNT9dQFRNF</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/952779740972122113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;Last year is last year. This is, like, a new year. You can&#39;t live in the previous year. It&#39;s impossible,&quot; said Venus Williams after losing.

&nbsp;

Belinda Bencic ranked No-78 beat Venus Williams in straight sets in the first round of the Australian Open on Monday

For the first time since 1997, Australian Open will be without Williams sisters. Serena Williams is already out following the birth of her daughter and Venus failed to qualify for the next round. 20-year-old Belinda Bencic saw off seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams in the first round of Australia Open in straight sets. Bencic recently featured with 19-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer at the Hopman Cup. He gave her advice and tips to improve the game. She had received a huge confidence boost. "I think all the week it was so great learning from him on the court or off the court," Bencic said on Federer. "Even now, I think it's amazing he's giving me advice, trying to give me tips, help me, like, looking how I'm doing. That feels great. I saw him after the match... he was very happy for me," she added. "It feels amazing to have the chance to play against both because I never thought I would ever play against them when I was a little kid."@BelindaBencic on playing both Serena & Venus.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/LNT9dQFRNF — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2018 × "Last year is last year. This is, like, a new year. You can't live in the previous year. It's impossible," said Venus Williams after losing.

Watch: Belinda Bencic on first-round win over Venus Williams

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

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

Australian Open: Jelena Ostapenko beats Francesca Schiavone in first round

Bulgaria&#39;s world No.3 Grigor Dimitrov breezed through his opening round in straight sets at the Australian Open on Monday.

Chasing his first Grand Slam title, he was too strong for Austrian qualifier Dennis Novak, winning 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 in 98 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.

Dimitrov, in Rafael Nadal&#39;s top half of the draw,&nbsp;broke Novak&#39;s service six times and only had two break points on his own serve.

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That&#39;s what you call taking care of business ???? 
 
Third seed <a href="https://twitter.com/GrigorDimitrov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GrigorDimitrov</a> defeats Dennis Novak 6-3 6-2 6-1 on <a href="https://twitter.com/RodLaverArena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RodLaverArena</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/OBvltbSkM5">pic.twitter.com/OBvltbSkM5</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/952780398685114369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It was a smooth opening performance by a man who has never been beyond the semi-finals of a Grand Slam.

&quot;I love playing on this court, it was tricky weather with a lot of wind in the warm-up and I tried to be compact and focused,&quot; Dimitrov said.

&quot;It&#39;s always a dream of mine to win a Slam, this is the next step, and the only thing I can do is to give 100 percent in each match.&quot;

&nbsp;

Grigor Dimitrov defeated Dennis Novak in straight sets 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 in 98 minutes

Bulgaria's world No.3 Grigor Dimitrov breezed through his opening round in straight sets at the Australian Open on Monday. Chasing his first Grand Slam title, he was too strong for Austrian qualifier Dennis Novak, winning 6-3, 6-2, 6-1 in 98 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. Dimitrov, in Rafael Nadal's top half of the draw, broke Novak's service six times and only had two break points on his own serve. That's what you call taking care of business ???? Third seed @GrigorDimitrov defeats Dennis Novak 6-3 6-2 6-1 on @RodLaverArena.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/OBvltbSkM5 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2018 × It was a smooth opening performance by a man who has never been beyond the semi-finals of a Grand Slam. "I love playing on this court, it was tricky weather with a lot of wind in the warm-up and I tried to be compact and focused," Dimitrov said. "It's always a dream of mine to win a Slam, this is the next step, and the only thing I can do is to give 100 percent in each match."

Australian Open: Dimitrov beats Novak in opener

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