MelbourneAustralia – By Wednesday, the Australian Open had settled into familiar territory, with the early chaos of the opening day gradually giving way to a clearer storyline and a growing sense of what the tournament might hold over the next two weeks.
For Novak Djokovic, the day was much like any other at Melbourne Park. The seven-time champion quietly but convincingly entered the third round with the ease and ease of someone who has mastered these courses over the years. It was yet another reminder of how comfortable Djokovic is here to stay, and how difficult it is to imagine a path to a draw that doesn’t ultimately lead back to him.
Carlos Alcaraz faces another test. Forced to respond after dropping a set, the Spaniard showed the composure of his young career, raising his level when it mattered most and drifting away as the match wore on. Daniil Medvedev’s subsequent performance was based more on patience than strength, soaking up pressure and prolonging rallies until the scales tipped in his favour.
Jannik Sinner continued to advance steadily without any fuss, while Alex de Minaur once again pushed the Australian hopes forward, his pace and consistency proving too much in three controlled sets.
The women’s draw unfolded with fewer twists and turns, but it was also authoritative. Iga Swiatek looked more and more confident throughout the match and her game became more intense as the afternoon progressed. Coco Gauff did the same thing, staying calm and finishing effectively when the opportunity presented itself.
Aryna Sabalenka’s power was on full display again, while Elena Rybakina advanced with the calm, deliberate precision that has become her trademark. Belinda Bencic stood out among the day’s performers as she battled her way through the competition and continued to show that her early-season form could make a real difference in Melbourne.
However, the day ended on a quiet note for the home fans. Australia’s Maya Joint, one of the country’s most promising young players, ended her match in straight sets. She competes freely, but as the game winds down, the gap between commitment and progress becomes clear. Still, the applause she received spoke volumes about the expectations and beliefs Australian players took to these courts.
The Australian Open is now starting to narrow its focus as the first round draws to a close. The matches will get longer, the stakes will get heavier and the draws will become less forgiving – at which point potential will give way to the impact of the season’s first Grand Slam.
