Kyrgios Out, Champ’s Controversial Bet Ends in Shocking Australian Open Exit
Nick Kyrgios has exited the Australian Open, marking the end of his campaign for this year. The Australian tennis star, alongside partner Leylah Fernandez, was defeated in straight sets during their mixed doubles second-round match.
Kyrgios’ Mixed Doubles Departure
Kyrgios and Fernandez faced the experienced duo of Anna Danilina and J.J. Tracy, losing 6-3, 6-1 in under an hour at John Cain Arena. The match lacked the usual energy typical of Kyrgios appearances. He had previously withdrawn from the singles competition due to fitness issues.
Despite two break points in the second set, Kyrgios and Fernandez failed to capitalize. The day was a stark contrast to Kyrgios’ passionate performances in the past, as audience engagement was noticeably low.
Madison Keys’ Title Defense Concludes
In another significant upset, Madison Keys’ title defense also ended. She lost to fellow American Jessica Pegula in a straight-sets match, 6-3, 6-4, on Rod Laver Arena. The match lasted approximately 78 minutes, with Pegula exhibiting strong form and limiting her unforced errors.
Pegula’s victory was marked by a friendly wager between the two athletes related to their recent podcast collaboration. Following the match, she expressed relief over avoiding a Kansas City Chiefs jersey, which she had agreed to wear if she lost.
Controversy Surrounding Carlos Alcaraz
World number one Carlos Alcaraz faced scrutiny during his fourth-round match when he was asked to remove a banned fitness-tracking device, the Whoop watch. The incident occurred before his match against Tommy Paul, drawing criticism from fans and ex-players alike.
- Alcaraz complied with the umpire’s request.
- Whoop’s founder called the ban “ridiculous,” noting it poses no safety risk.
- Former players criticized the inconsistency in tennis regulations.
Day 9 Preview
The tournament continues with significant matches lined up. Notably, Novak Djokovic received a walkover to the fourth round after his opponent withdrew due to injury, reducing his path to the semifinals by one match. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner will face Luciano Darderi, while Maddison Inglis aims for a historic quarter-final berth against world number two Iga Swiatek.
As the Australian Open progresses, all eyes are on who will emerge victorious amid upsets and controversial moments that define the tournament’s narrative this year.
