Melbourne — The first week of the Australian Open tends to separate intention from preparation. As the draw heads into its second week, it’s no longer a question of who’s in good form, but who’s willing to be patient when conditions, opponents and expectations start to tighten.
This process played out in two draws over seven days at Melbourne Park. The favorites have largely held their ground, albeit not without resistance, while a handful of young players have forced their way into the conversation with performances that have been hard to ignore.
Carlos Alcaraz, who topped the men’s draw, was increasingly in control in his first-round matches. No. 1 in the world 1 Dropping a set early but never looking uneasy, he ended his first week with a straight-sets win over Tommy Paul to reach the quarterfinals. Alcaraz managed the game well, combining patience with timely attacks and conserving energy as the game progressed.
(P. Rahal/L’Equipe)
After the draw, Novak Djokovic continued his familiar routine in Melbourne. this 10– The winner advances to the second round 16 Beating Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets adds another milestone to his resume 400The first Grand Slam singles match in his career. It’s not a statement show, but it doesn’t need to be. Djokovic has long viewed his first week here as a process, not a showcase.
The match took its sharpest turn when Learner Tien defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets. The American teenager was comfortable from the start, changing the pace and finishing decisively, while Medvedev struggled to establish sustained control. The result marked Tian’s first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance and was one of the decisive results of the week.
On the women’s side, Aryna Sabalenka showed why she is still the defending champion. Sabalenka moves into quarterfinals with a composed victory over Victoria Mboko, 19Early shots before the seven-year-old imposes his own pace. As expected, the power is there, but so is the restraint.
A breakthrough week belongs to Eva Jovic. this 18Year-old American reaches first Grand Slam quarterfinals 6-0, 6-1 Overcoming Yulia Putintseva, the performance unfolded quickly and without hesitation. Jovic stayed aggressive but didn’t force the issue, and his play felt like a relief rather than a surprise.
These conditions are ongoing. Heat interruptions, tardiness and physical play dictated the schedule and tested recovery abilities. Some players ride it cleanly. Others have run out of time.
As Week 2 begins, the draw presents a familiar balance – proven contenders still standing, new names pushing forward, and little room for error. The first round provided the answer, but only part of it.
At the Australian Open, it becomes clear who belongs who in the first week. The second week will determine who makes it through.
