Novak Djokovic overcame an initial setback in his pursuit of tennis history, advancing to the second round of the Australian Open alongside Carlos Alcaraz and reigning champion Jannik Sinner on Monday. However, Australian favourite Nick Kyrgios exited early amid frustration and physical discomfort.
In Melbourne’s prime-time evening match at Rod Laver Arena, Djokovic faced a challenging start, losing the first set to the 107th-ranked American, Nishesh Basavareddy. Despite this early scare, the Serbian star rallied to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2, continuing his quest for an 11th Australian Open and a record 25th Grand Slam singles title. Djokovic, visibly struggling to smile, displayed mixed emotions after the match.
Pumped.@DjokerNole • #AusOpen • #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/uGdEaghNdg
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2025Jannik Sinner, the world number one from Italy, competed under the specter of recent doping allegations. Despite testing positive for traces of a steroid in March, Sinner was cleared by tennis authorities. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed, seeking a two-year ban. Sinner received a warm reception at Rod Laver Arena and triumphed over Chile’s Nicolas Jarry in straight sets, 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/5), 6-1.
Alcaraz’s Ambition
In aiming for his first Melbourne title, Carlos Alcaraz expressed his determination after defeating Kazakhstan’s Alexander Shevchenko 6-1, 7-5, 6-1. “This is a tournament I really want to win one day, hopefully this year,” said the 21-year-old Spaniard.
Disappointment for Kyrgios
Home fans faced disappointment as Nick Kyrgios, who recently returned from an 18-month injury hiatus, lost to Britain’s Jacob Fearnley in straight sets. Kyrgios, known for his fiery temperament, struggled with pain and frustration throughout the match.
Notable Women’s Performances
In the women’s draw, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff easily advanced. Swiatek defeated Katerina Siniakova 6-3, 6-4, while Gauff, fresh from her US Open victory and United Cup triumph, overcame Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3. Gauff remarked on the challenge, “I knew it was going to be difficult, but I’m happy with how I played.”
Several top seeds exited the tournament early. Last year’s finalist, Stefanos Tsitsipas, was ousted by Alex Michelsen 7-5, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4. Frances Tiafoe, despite on-court struggles, outlasted Arthur Rinderknech in five sets. Victoria Azarenka and other notable players also faced early elimination, adding drama to the tournament’s opening days.
The Australian Open continues to captivate, with high stakes and intense competition defining the early rounds as players vie for one of tennis’s most coveted titles.
