Six Aussies Survive Brutal AO Start; One Set to Face Sinner

Morgan Winslow

ago 2 hours

Six Aussies Survive Brutal AO Start; One Set to Face Sinner

In the first week of the 2026 Australian Open, several Australian players faced tough challenges, with mixed results. Key players competed in singles matches, showcasing determination and skill in a series of thrilling encounters. Here, we summarize the performances of Australian athletes during the early rounds.

Men’s Singles Highlights

In the men’s singles, prominent players like Alex de Minaur, Jordan Thompson, Rinky Hijikata, and Dane Sweeny made headlines. Each faced different opponents, testing their skills at Melbourne Park.

Alex de Minaur

Alex de Minaur is set to face Frances Tiafoe on January 23. The exact match timing and venue are still to be announced.

Jordan Thompson

Thompson had a challenging first round, overcoming Juan Manuel Cerundolo in a tiebreak.
He faced Nuno Borges in the second round and lost in a marathon match, with scores of 6-7 (9-11), 6-3, 6-2, 6-4.

Rinky Hijikata

Hijikata advanced past Adrian Mannarino in straight sets in round one.
He fell to world No.30 Valentin Vacherot in the second round, with a score of 1-6, 3-6, 6-4, 4-6.

Dane Sweeny

Sweeny achieved his first major Grand Slam victory against Gaël Monfils in round one, winning 7-6 (7-5), 7-5, 6-4.
Unfortunately, he lost his second round match against Ben Shelton, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.

James Duckworth

Duckworth engaged in a grueling match against Dino Prizmic, winning 6-7 (6-8), 6-3, 6-1, 5-7, 6-3 after four hours and 21 minutes.
He is set to face world No.2 Jannik Sinner next on January 22.

Women’s Singles Highlights

The Australian women also showcased their talent in singles, though many faced early exits.

Ajla Tomljanović

Tomljanović fought back from a set down against Yuliia Starodubtseva but lost her second match to Elena-Gabriela Ruse, 6-4, 6-4.

Talia Gibson

Gibson claimed a strong win against Anna Blinkova in the first round with scores of 6-1, 6-3.
In the second round, she lost a tough match against Diana Shnaider, ending 3-6, 7-5, 6-3.

Priscilla Hon

Hon secured her first Australian Open victory in six years but was knocked out by Iva Jović in straight sets, 6-1, 6-2.

Storm Hunter

Hunter progressed past Jessica Bouzas Maneiro but was defeated by Hailey Baptiste in the second round, 6-2, 6-1.

Taylah Preston

The wildcard player achieved a remarkable victory against Zhang Shuai, winning 6-3, 2-6, 6-3.
She faced a formidable challenge against Linda Nosková but lost 6-2, 4-6, 6-2.

Maddison Inglis

Inglis secured her place in the second round with a decisive win over Kimberly Birrell.
Next, she will compete against Germany’s Laura Siegemund on January 22.

The Australian Open continues to unfold as players strive for success in one of tennis’s most prestigious tournaments. Follow Filmogaz.com for more updates and insights as the competition progresses.