Australian Open: Gea Falls in 5-Set Thriller, Gracheva in Straight Sets
The second round of the Australian Open showcased dramatic matches, particularly for French players. Among the six competitors, only Corentin Moutet and Valentin Vacherot advanced to the next stage.
Gea’s Thrilling Five-Set Battle
In a remarkable debut at the Australian Open, Arthur Gea faced Swiss veteran Stan Wawrinka. The match lasted an intense 4 hours and 33 minutes. Wawrinka, a former champion at Melbourne in 2014, demonstrated his experience, winning the match with scores of 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (10-3).
Gea (ranked 198th), despite his loss, exhibited significant determination. He noted that he was prepared for a five-set match, especially considering it might be Wawrinka’s final Australian Open appearance. Throughout the match, Gea faced physical challenges, including cramps and nausea.
Gea’s First Grand Slam Experience
- Match Duration: 4 hours and 33 minutes
- Opponent: Stan Wawrinka
- Final Score: 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (10-3)
- Gea’s Ranking: 198th
- Wawrinka’s Experience: 58th five-set match
Reflecting on his performance, Gea expressed pride in his effort, indicating he would have given his all, even if it meant finishing in a wheelchair. He did secure a noteworthy victory against Czech player Jiri Lehecka in the first round.
Vacherot Advances with Confidence
Monégasque player Valentin Vacherot also progressed in the tournament. He defeated Australian Rinky Hijikata with a score of 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2. This victory marks his first time reaching the third round of a major tournament.
Key Highlights of Vacherot’s Match
- Match Score: 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2
- Opponent: Rinky Hijikata
- Vacherot’s Age: 27
- Significant Achievement: First major third-round appearance
Vacherot humorously remarked about losing the third set but ultimately prevailing in the match. His recent successes, including a title at the Masters 1000 in Shanghai, have propelled him into the Top 50 of the ATP rankings. He will next face American Ben Shelton, seeded seventh, in the pursuit of a place in the fourth round.
On the women’s side, Varvara Gracheva became the last French player to exit, losing to Elena Rybakina with scores of 7-5, 6-2. Gracheva struggled with the windy conditions but showed resilience throughout the match.
