Day 5 Australian Open: Maestrelli Takes on Djokovic, Darderi Competes
On the fifth day of the Australian Open, Luciano Darderi achieved a significant milestone by defeating Sebastian Baez. This victory propelled him into the third round of the tournament, a remarkable feat considering he previously had not won a match at this Grand Slam event.
Luciano Darderi Triumphs at Australian Open
Ranked 25th globally, Darderi showcased his skills by winning against Baez with a score of 6-3, 1-6, 6-4, 6-3. This match marked his equal success at Grand Slam events, matching his previous third-round appearances at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2025.
Match Highlights
- Darderi’s victory was decisive, particularly on a surface he finds less favorable.
- Baez had a strong start to 2026, notably beating Taylor Fritz at the United Cup.
- In Auckland, Baez made it to the finals but lost to Jakub Mensik.
In the opening round at Melbourne, Baez had eliminated French player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, showcasing his readiness for the tournament. However, Darderi’s prior experiences against Baez proved crucial. He won three out of their seven encounters, including notable victories at the semifinals in Cordoba in 2024 and in Bastad last year.
Looking Ahead
Darderi’s next opponent will be Karen Khachanov, the 18th-ranked player and 15th seed in the Australian Open. This upcoming match will be a test for Darderi as he aims to advance further in the tournament.
This impressive performance from Darderi highlights his growth as a player and suggests a promising trajectory in his career moving forward.
