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On Day 2 of the Australian Open 2024, 27th seed Felix Auger Aliassime dazzled in the evening session at the Margaret Court Arena. He triumphed over former US Open champion Dominic Thiem in a marathon match, the longest of his career, lasting nearly 5 hours on Monday, January 15. In another match, Stefanos Tsitsipas progressed to the second round of the men's singles by defeating Zizou Bergs with scores of 5-7, 6-1, 6-1, 6-3. On the other hand, the tournament marked a disheartening conclusion for Andy Murray, the 3-time Grand Slam champion, who suggested it might be his final appearance at Melbourne Park. Similarly, it was the end of the line for another ex-Grand Slam champion, Stanislas Wawrinka, who also bowed out after going down to A Mannarino 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 0-6 grueling five-set match.
FELIX'S EPIC VICTORY OVER THIEM
In an enthralling first-round clash, Felix Auger-Aliassime emerged victorious against Dominic Thiem, enduring a 4-hour and 59-minute battle, the longest in his career. Demonstrating remarkable tenacity and skill, the Canadian overcame a vigorous challenge from Thiem, clinching the match with a final score of 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 5-7, 6-3. This defeat extends Thiem's string of early exits at Grand Slams, a trend that has persisted since his last deep run at the 2021 Australian Open.
MURRAY'S APPARENT FAREWELL AT AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Andy Murray, a five-time finalist at the Australian Open, faced a tough defeat against Tomas Martin Etcheverry, who secured a comprehensive 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 win. This second consecutive first-round loss for Murray, following his Brisbane International defeat to Grigor Dimitrov, potentially marks his final appearance at the Australian Open.
MONFILS ADVANCES WITH IMPRESSIVE WIN
Gael Monfils, the dynamic French player, easily secured his spot in the second round by defeating Germany's Yannick Hanfmann with scores of 6-4, 6-3, 7-5. At 37, Monfils showcased his enduring talent with 16 aces, 43 winners, and a successful approach at the net, winning 13 points.
SHELTON'S STRONG DEBUT
American player Ben Shelton marked his entry into the second round, overcoming Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut in a match that lasted 2 hours and 46 minutes, with scores of 6-2, 7-6, 7-5. Shelton's performance was notable for his effective first serves, winning 79 percent of these points, along with executing 14 aces. His impressive tally of 53 winners was crucial in pressuring Agut throughout the match.
MEDVEDEV BENEFITS FROM OPPONENT'S RETIREMENT
Daniil Medvedev advanced to the second round somewhat fortuitously, as his opponent, Grand Slam debutant Terence Atmane, retired due to injury. At the time of Atmane's retirement, Medvedev was ahead with scores of 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0. Medvedev will next face Finland's Emil Ruusuvuori, who won his first-round match against qualifier Patrick Kypson.
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