That’s a wrap for today. We go again tomorrow. Bye!
In the minutes after his dramatic five-set victory over Thanasi Kokkinakis at 4am on Friday morning, Andy Murray should have been reflecting on his toughness and celebrating one of the most extraordinary triumphs of his career. Instead, as he was reminded of the time, he was merely frustrated. “Rather than it being: ‘Epic Murray-Kokkinakis match,’ it ends in a bit of a farce,” he said, noting the negative impact on players, officials, ball-kids and fans alike.
Swiatek v Rybakina, Ostapenko v Gauff, Pegula v Krejcikova and Azarenka v Zhu are the locked in fourth-round ties in the women’s draw.
Krejcikova, who I’ve not seen play at this tournament up to this point, hasn’t dropped a set. She faced Sara Bejlek (ranked 175) and Clara Burel (ranked 130) in the first and second rounds respectively, and brushed aside Anhelina Kalinina (ranked 39) with similar ease in the third round.
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Nishioka v Khachanov, Hurkacz v Korda, Tsitsipas v Sinner and Lehecka v Auger-Aliassime are the last-16 ties that are confirmed for the men’s singles.
The potential bolter from that lot would have to be Korda, given today’s display. I can’t see Hurkacz being able to deal with him on that sort of form.
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Today’s news stories from Melbourne:
It’s coming up to 2am in Melbourne, so a nice early finish …
Medvedev was shown on Eurosport a little earlier, reflecting on that defeat by Korda: “Matches like this are tough. What I can say is that he played his good level, maybe a little bit better than his good level … and I played not at all bad, but just a little bit below what I had to do to win … and that’s tough, because probably that’s something about confidence, being in the zone, and I was not there tonight.
“All the close points, I didn’t win that many, these beautiful rallies, he was winning more of them, touching the lines a little bit more.
“So yeah, in a way, I think it was a top match when he was just better than me … right now I’m struggling to win these types of matches against opponents who are playing a good level. That’s what I have to find back.”
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Zhu speaks: “Oh my God … Honestly, am I in a dream?
“Words can’t describe how I feel right now. Thank you to my team, for pushing me every day to become a better player … I wouldn’t be here without you guys.
“I want to thank you [the fans] all for coming to support, it really means a lot to me.
“Can I say a few words in Chinese? It’s Chinese New Year’s Eve today …”
She can indeed, and does … and then:
“I have the ability to play at this high level. I just need to work hard every day … and who knows what’s going to happen?
“Thank you so much, guys!”
And off she goes. Tremendous win.
Tears for Zhu. What a performance, what a win.
Zhu beats Sakkari! 7-6 (3), 1-6, 6-4
Zhu makes it 15-15 with an accomplished volley that wrong-foots Sakkari.
Sakkari, next up, nets a big chance on Zhu’s second serve … 30-15.
Zhu bashes another forehand winner down the line! 40-15!
And she does it with an ace! After beating the No 32 seed, Jil Teichmann, in the second round Zhu has dispensed with another seed!
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*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 5-4 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Zhu buys a break point, her advantage. She miscues a forehand into the net and it’s back level.
A long rally next up ends with Sakkari hitting long. (It looked in, but maybe my eyes have gone square.)
It’s a break point for Zhu … and she wins it with another absolutely staggering bit of defence, charging all over the court, and then smoking a forehand down the line! BANG!
Zhu is a game away, and will serve for the match, and a fourth-round meeting against Victoria Azarenka. That was an incredible effort to convert that break point.
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Victoria Azarenka awaits the winner of this match in the fourth round.
Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 4-4 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Zhu holds, pumping her fist and roaring, looking to her team and fans in the crowd for some encouragement. This is a finely balanced affair and a couple of errors, or perhaps moments of brilliance, are likely to settle it.
“I just told myself to be No 2 in the world and win this match.”
So said Ons Jabeur after beating Tamara Zidansek the other day.
Sakkari could do with a dose of the same positive thinking.
*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-4 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
A love hold puts Sakkari into the lead for the first time. It’s a handy time to hit the front …
Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-3 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Sakkari earns a break point at 30-40, and converts! So we’re back on serve in the decider. Sakkari seemed to be drifting away for a while there, but she’s back at it now.
*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-2 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Zhu draws an error to earn another break point, but Sakkari batters a powerful backhand to the corner for deuce again.
Sakkari edges to a game point, yet again, but promptly serves up her sixth double-fault of the match.
Neither player can really impose themselves on the other, it seems, it’s a back-and-forth battle with no real rhythm to it at the moment. Anyway, Sakkari finally holds.
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Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-1 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Whoah! Some exceptional defence from Zhu eventually brings an errant volley into the net from Sakkari … that’s a point that Zhu had no right to win, really, and it makes it 30-30.
Soon it’s a break point when Sakkari double-faults but Zhu can only direct her next return into the net. Deuce.
A composed winner by Sakkari nabs game point, but she hits a forehand wide, and we’re back to deuce again …
Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-1 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
An ace seals the latest game for Zhu, and takes her one step closer to the fourth round.
*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 2-1 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Sakkari wins the first point with a daring angled forehand winner. Zhu miscues for 30-0. Sakkari is on the verge of a love hold at 40-0 but Zhu makes an excellent, stretching volley to make it 40-15. A double fault, and suddenly the pressure is back on Sakkari a little … then she errs with a drop-volley and Zhu has fought back to deuce in determined fashion.
When Sakkari smacks another ambitious forehand to the corner, it bounces out, and it’s a very unlikely break point for Zhu!
Sakkari saves it in slightly fortunate fashion, not catching a forehand sweetly, that flicks off the net but bounces in.
An ace for Sakkari brings game point, and she buries a forehand down the line to get on the board in the decider.
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Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 2-0 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Trouble brewing for the sixth seed.
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*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-6, 1-0 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Zhu breaks to begin the third! Sakkari looked in control, but no longer.
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I got 8/10 in the quiz. And I was eight out of eight! Damn it.
Andy Murray, we are told, has been out hitting a few practice balls today. Personally I am still exhausted after live-blogging his win against Kokkinakis, so who knows how Murray must be feeling?
Sakkari wins the second set against Zhu! 7-6 (3), 1-6
The momentum is all with the sixth seed, as you’d only expect against the world No 87.
It’s coming up to 1am in Melbourne … what time will these fans (not to mention players) be getting to bed?
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*Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-5 Sakkari (*denotes next server)
Sakkari continues to move through the gears.
QUIZ!
Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-4 *Sakkari (*denotes next server)
A double break for Sakkari in the second set now – she is exerting her authority after losing the first.
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Now, over in in Zhu v Sakkari, on Margaret Court Arena, it’s 3-1 to the Greek in the second.
Korda made Medvedev look ordinary, and there are not many that can say that …
Korda speaks: “Unbelievable match. I kind of knew what I had to do. I stuck with it … I’m thrilled right now, I played amazing, and it was an unbelievable match for me.”
What was his game plan? “Just go for it …
“I love playing in Australia, my family loves playing in Australia, we’ve got a lot of awesome moments here.”
Korda is reminded that his father won the Australian Open in 1998.
“Yeah, even better though, my sisters [Nelly and Jessica] won the Australian Open in the women’s golf … both of them.
“I don’t know where I’m going to be ranked [after this result] but my mom’s career [Regina] high was 24, my dad was No 2, Nelly my sister was No 1, my other sister Jessica was No 6 … so I’m definitely the worst athlete in the family so far.”
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Zhu 7-6 (3), 1-2 *Sakkari (* denotes next server)
Another upset on the cards in the women’s singles? Zhu has the first set against Sakkari, the sixth seed.
Korda beats Medvedev! 7-6 (9), 6-3, 7-6 (4)
What a performance by the 22-year-old!
Korda smacks yet another forehand winner that bounces comfortably in, and that’s a sensational win. Medvedev is full of praise, coming around the net to congratulate his conqueror.
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Third-set tiebreak! Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 6-6 (6-3) Medvedev
It looks like he’s done it … but another lusty blow falls fractionally long! But now, match point on Korda’s serve.
Third-set tiebreak! Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 6-6 (6-1) Medvedev
Bish, bosh, bash. Medvedev fights. But he is overpowered. A clean winner down the line by Korda. Five match points …
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Third-set tiebreak! Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 6-6 (5-1) Medvedev
Korda races to 4-0. Medvedev looks … contemplative, but not in a good way. Looks like he knows this young bloke has the measure of him. He edges on to the board at 4-1.
Another punishing forehand from Korda kisses the line and Medvedev can only bat it back into the net.
“Again Korda is the one being proactive,” says Henman on commentary.
Third-set tiebreak! Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 6-6 Medvedev
A listless drop shot by Korda flops into the net and makes it 15-15.
Korda then hammers a backhand down the line that looks a mile out, but there is no call from the umpire, and another tasty drop shot by the American makes it 30-15.
Soon it’s 40-15, but an immense return from way outside the tramlines by Medvedev scorches into the corner.
And yet, and yet … Korda seals the game with a polished point, clipping an angled volley away from his opponent. Tiebreak!
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*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 5-6 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
An awesome drop shot by Korda has Medvedev scrambling, and makes it 30-30.
He tries again on the next point, but leaves this one short, and the Russian has a game point.
Korda saves it for deuce after Medvedev hits long, but then the world No 8 seals the hold, and Korda will serve to try and force a tiebreak.
Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 5-5 *Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Korda speeds to hold his latest service game and level it up in the third.
Thanks David. Hello again everyone.
And with Medvedev hinting at a big turnaround, I’ll hand you back to Luke McLaughlin.
*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 4-5 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Medvedev slams down an ace for another hold to love and that’s eight points in a row! Is the tide turning?
Suddenly, Korda has to hold to stay in the set.
Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 4-4 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
Medvedev breaks! And what a time to to it. Medvedev wins the opening point to stick a toe in the door before Korda’s heavy serve and a delicate volley secure 30-15.
Korda whacks down another hefty serve that Medvedev can’t tame but at 40-15 he wobbles. Two missed volleys and a drop shot that tumbles back on his own side give Medvedev a break point and another unforced error hands his opponent the game. We’re 4-4 in the third.
*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 4-3 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Medvedev responds with an easy hold to love. Rather than expending any energy or focus on his opponent’s serve, Korda seems to be steeling himself for the two service games of his own that will secure victory.
Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 4-2 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
Korda has only played in eight Slams and never gone beyond the fourth round. That statistic will change soon and it remains very much on track here.
He cruises to 40-0 with a beautiful drop shot and then completes a first love hold via a meaty serve. He’s just two games away from what would be the biggest win of his life.
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*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 3-2 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Medvedev simply has to win this service game to avoid going a double break down and does so comfortably enough to 15. But at what point, if at all, does Korda blink?
Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 3-1 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
Korda wins a thrilling rat-a-tat rally at the net to secure 30-15 but even that only produces a gentle smile and a slow clench of the fist. There’s that calm temperament again.
Two double faults to take the game to deuce suggest their may be some leg paddling going on beneath the surface but he blasts another winner to complete a fine hold. The clock is ticking for Medvedev here.
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*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 2-1 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Perhaps Plan B has started. Medvedev races through the quickest game of the match with a hold to love, just his second so far.
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Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 2-0 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
Korda puts a volley away for 15-15 and then wins a lengthy rally to edge in front. He greets that one with a little clenched first.
A big first serve at 40-30 secures a 2-0 lead in the third. No signs at all that Korda is dropping his levels or tightening up. “What is Medvedev’s Plan B?” asks Tim Henman.
*Korda 7-6 (9), 6-3, 1-0 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Can Medvedev, the beaten finalist here in both 2021 and 2022, turn it around?
Tim Henman says in commentary: “I think he can but I don’t think he well. Korda is playing too well. I definitely think Korda will win one of the next three sets.”
Tim’s call looks decent. A creamy topspin lob gives Korda three break points and he needs just one. For the third set running, Korda has broken Medvedev’s opening service game.
Korda goes two sets up v Medvedev! 7-6 (9), 6-3
Great timing from Korda on a backhand pass puts him 30-0 in front before two loose ones into the net check his progress. This isn’t the time for unforced errors.
But Korda responds with a forehand winner after a weak Medvedev return and seals the set and a 2-0 lead with a textbook serve and volley.
Medvedev has won before from two sets down – not as often as Andy Murray admittedly – and he’ll need to do that here to stay alive.
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*Korda 7-6 (9), 5-3 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Korda gets to 30-30 on the Medvedev serve but a precise groundstroke to the corner and an ace secure the hold. Korda now serving for the set though.
Korda 7-6 (9), 5-2 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
The Eurosport commentators point out the lack of a drop shot in the contest so far. Medvedev tends to be very deep so it’s an option for Korda.
No matter as Korda’s sweetly-timed double backhand pass secures a 5-2 lead. Still just one break so far but Medvedev needs to get it back, and quick.
*Korda 7-6 (9), 4-2 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
A foot fault, his second of the match, temporarily flummoxes Medvedev but otherwise it’s a comfortable hold and he narrows the gap to 4-2.
Korda 7-6 (9), 4-1 Medvedev* (*denotes next server)
Korda seemed to have talent coming out of his ears when I watched him at Wimbledon last summer and the co-commentators are now wondering if his golf-playing sisters, Nelly and Jessica (world Nos. 2 and 18 respectively), have the same even-keeled temperament as Seb.
A calm volley at the net extends Korda’s lead to 4-1 so seventh seed Medvedev is up against it here.
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*Korda 7-6 (9), 3-1 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
There were six breaks of serve in the opening set and another has helped Korda into an early 3-0 lead in the second.
Medvedev finally gets on the board to narrow the American’s lead to 3-1.
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Thanks Luke. Let’s head to the Rod Laver Arena then and the Medvedev-Korda match. Petr’s boy took the opening set on a tiebreak.
I’m off for a spot of lunch. My colleague David Tindall is on hand to guide you through the next hour.
Barely a month after Elena Rybakina won Wimbledon last year, she did not feel like a grand slam champion. She entered the US Open ranked world No 25, having received no points from the WTA-sanctioned All England Club, and lost her first-round match. In straight sets. Against the 131st-ranked Clara Burel. On Court 12.
Khachanov beats Tiafoe! 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (9)
The 18th seed prevails over the 16th. A meeting with Yoshihito Nishioka, seeded 31, awaits.
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Hurkacz has a chat: “I was just trying to stay in there. It was really tough. His game was rising … it was super tough, but it was great to play in front of such a great crowd.”
[Customary cheer.]
“It’s going to be a tough one [against Korda or Medvedev in the next round] …
“I will work with my physio, and be ready for the next one. Thank you, guys!”
Korda wins the first set v Medvedev! 7-6 (7)
Is there an upset in the works?
Hurkacz beats Shapovalov! 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3
Shapovalov, staring into the abyss, suddenly starts smashing it from all places and angles, and races to 0-40 on the Pole’s serve. Three break points.
Hurkacz gets one back, then Shapovalov hits wide, and long, and the Pole drags it back to deuce thanks in part to a stunning half-volley.
Shapovalov isn’t done, though, and earns himself another break point … he wastes it with a limp backhand into the net off an ordinary second serve!
Deuce, and Hurkacz braces himself, and belts down a 223km/h ace to set up match point … and he wins it with another big serve and a wrong-footer with Shapovalov trying to get back to the middle of the court!
A fine win for Hurkacz, and all in all a very good battle.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 5-3 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Shapovalov holds. Hurkacz can serve for a place in the fourth round.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 5-2 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
It looks very much like the Canadian has left himself too much to do now. He pieced everything together in sets three and four, but now Hurkacz’s greater consistency is making all the difference in the fifth. The Pole batters down an ace to seal his latest hold and is one game away from a place in the fourth round.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 4-2 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurkacz breaks! One unforced error hands him his first break point, but Shapovalov saves that. No such luck on the second. Hurkacz claims the first break in the final set.
Khachanov 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 6-6 Tiafoe
On John Cain Arena, there’s a fourth-set tiebreak ongoing, with Frances Tiafoe fighting to stay in the tournament, two sets to one down.
Korda and Medvedev are in a first-set tiebreak.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 3-2 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
“Hubi”, who of course is the man that ended Roger Federer’s Wimbledon career in emphatic style in 2021, does the necessary and holds. It’s with serve in the final set.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 2-2 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
“Maybe he [Shapovalov] is realising he doesn’t need to be extraordinary … he just needs to be ordinary, just make it happen,” says Jo Durie on commentary for Eurosport.
Certainly that is something Shapovalov has struggled with in the past … but here he is, holding serve with efficiency, making it back to 2-2 in the final set.
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*Korda 5-6 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Now the Russian hits back, edging to a 6-5 lead in the first, requiring his opponent to serve to stay in it.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 2-1 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurkacz has indeed raised his level. He holds to love again, sealing the game with a very tricky forehand volley that he puts away stylishly and powerfully. That was almost like an attempt to mimic his opponent’s wristy style.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 1-1 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
The Polish player wins a couple of points on his opponent’s serve, but Shapovalov holds impressively, and it’s back to parity.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6, 1-0 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurkacz pings down the necessary number of serves to hold to love, a strong start to this crucial final set. Mind you, there is a lovely half volley to win the clincher at 40-0, too.
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Korda 4-4 Medvedev
All square in that first set, Medvedev having grabbed another break back.
“He plays a very wristy style of tennis,” Eurosport’s Mats Wilander observes of Shapovalov, which is a nice way of putting it.
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Shapovalov wins the fourth set v Hurkacz! 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-6
Two sets all! Shapovalov cracks an ace to seal the set, and whips up the crowd. He is in the ascendancy now, no question, but can Hurkacz raise his game for the final set? He probably can.
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Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-5 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Phew. Shapovalov earns himself a break and a set point … Hurkacz tonks down a big first serve, and eventually wins the point (even though his opponent digs out a remarkable return) and closes out the game. The Canadian 20th seed can serve to force a deciding set.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 4-5 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Shapovalov continues to play with the consistency that was lacking early doors, and forces his Polish opponent to serve to stay in this fourth set.
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Korda 4-2 *Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Korda was a double break up … but the Russian has just got one back. Might we see an epic tussle on Rod Laver Arena between these two?
Sometimes chants work, sometimes they do not. And the great minds in the gallery who endeavoured to stretch the word “Kokkinakis” across the breadth of the Seven Nation Army riff had been too ambitious with their syllables. It was a bit Billy Mack, except that Christmas is All Around topped the charts – this lot had no excuse. At least back in the Lleyton era we got “Walking in a Hewitt wonderland”. Now we must endure “Let’s go, Kokky, let’s go”.
Granted, it was after 10pm by the time Margaret Court Arena welcomed Thanasi Kokkinakis and Andy Murray, and with late nights come the inevitable late-night vibes. “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, oi, oi, oi” was still a staple among the Australians in attendance for this scarcely describable five hours and 45 minutes. But the collective inclination was more “Up the Kokk” than “If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands”. The mood was jaunty, hovering precariously between mischievous and meddlesome, and it remained that way until 4.06am, when the pair finally – finally – hobbled off in a primal daze, their bodies emptied of their glycogen and possibly their sanity.
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 2-4 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Lovely stuff. Eye-catching hitting from both men – Shapovalov edges to a game point from 30-30, and in the next rally eventually moves around the ball on his forehand side, creating the space to whip a forehand winner down the line that Hurkacz hasn’t a hope of getting near.
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Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 2-3 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurcakz, who hails from Wroclaw in south western Poland, belts down a few tasty serves and holds his serve in double-quick time.
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 1-3 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
The big-hitting Canadian backs up his break.
Korda 3-1 *Medvedev (*denotes next server)
The Russian held serve at the second time of asking, and is on the board in the first set.
However, Medvedev appears to have a problem with his right arm, and was receiving treatment a few moments ago. Trouble brewing?
If you missed it: the No 1 seed Iga Swiatek eased past Cristina Bucsa of Spain earlier: 6-0, 6-1.
The Polish world No 1 will face Elena Rybakina (seeded 22) in the fourth round.
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Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 1-2 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Now Shapovalov breaks again! Settle in, because this may be another marathon affair …
Korda 2-0 *Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Korda has now forced Medvedev to deuce on his second service game of the match …
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6, 1-1 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Shapovalov rounds off a hold with a delightful drop volley at the net, cushioning and angling the ball beautifully.
At 30-30 in that game there was a break in play because some bird droppings had appeared at the back of the court, close to the tramlines, on Hurkacz’s side. A ball girl came and mopped it up with a towel.
*Korda 1-0 Medvedev (*denotes next server)
Korda springs out of the traps in the first set on Rod Laver Arena, and breaks Medvedev at the first time of asking!
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Shapovalov wins the third set v Hurkacz! 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-6
Shapovalov seals the deal and wins the third. But can he keep up this level?
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Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 1-5 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurkacz holds and asks his opponent to serve it out.
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 0-5 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
When he’s hot, he’s hot. “Shapo” is hitting more than he’s missing at the moment and that makes it dangerous for his Polish opponent.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 0-4 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
In fashion news, Hurkacz is sporting shiny lilac-coloured outfit almost a velvet-effect, while Shapovalov has a white shirt and cap but a multi-coloured, psychedelic pair of shorts on.
In the tennis, the Canadian breaks again! He leads 4-0 in the third and is on course to get right back in this match.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 0-3 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Shapovalov eventually holds to build that 3-0 lead.
On Rod Laver Arena, Seb Korda and Daniil Medvedev are strolling out to begin their match, with the Melbourne clock at 9.15pm. Korda is seeded 29, Medvedev seven.
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Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 0-2 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
A deuce battle ensues, Hurkacz giving nothing away. Shapovalov is forced to save a succession of break points.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 6-4, 0-2 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Right, over in the men’s singles, Hurkacz is now two sets up on the Canadian, Shapovalov, but the 23-year-old has broken early in the third, and is serving to open up a 3-0 lead.
Azarenka beats Keys! 1-6, 6-2, 6-1
That was a woeful effort from Keys after an excellent first set. Azarenka didn’t have to do much in the final two sets, Keys just couldn’t get her service game together, and the rest of her game was strewn with errors, too.
Azarenka will play either Zhu or Sakkari (6) in the fourth round. She’s made it 4-0 on H2H with Keys.
I’m off for a coffee, and will be back in a few.
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Keys 6-1, 2-6, 1-5 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Azarenka veers wide on game point for Keys, and the American is on the board in the second set. However, Azarenka will now serve for the match.
Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 5-3 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Hurkacz has broken yet again, and opened up a lead in the second on Margaret Court Arena.
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*Keys 6-1, 2-6, 0-5 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Azarenka stays patient in the rallies and moves to within one game of a final-set bagel, and a place in the fourth round. She has won eight games in a row. She asks the umpire if she can nip to the toilet, but the answer is no, unless she wants to risk a time violation.
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 3-3 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
Both players have four breaks of serve on their card each. All square in the second.
Cameron Norrie’s hopes of reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open for the first time ended with a five-set loss to the Czech youngster Jiri Lehecka:
Keys 6-1, 2-6, 0-4 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Azarenka’s defence is top class. She is not fazed by the power hitting of her American opponent. There are some shots she won’t get near, but she accepts that and moves on … In such a way she forces 0-30, again threatening a break, but a strong first serve from Keys is unreturnable, and then a solid volley brings it back to 30-30.
Keys moves close to an important hold at 40-30 but Azarenka won’t give it away, belting a down-the-line winner for deuce, then seeing her opponent hit long for Azarenka’s advantage. The world No 24 looks to be moving in for the kill but a punishing forehand from Keys, who is ranked No 13, brings deuce.
Oh dear … another double fault hands Azarenka the break. Keys was flying in the first, but has collapsed.
*Keys 6-1, 2-6, 0-3 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
From 40-0, some big hitting from Keys does indeed exert some pressure, and she takes it to 40-30. But Azarenka gets the job done and opens up a 3-0 lead.
Keys 6-1, 2-6, 0-2 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
My feed of this match just disappeared, and while it was gone, Azarenka broke serve again to build a 2-0 lead in the final set. The writing appears to be on the wall for Keys, who simply hasn’t served well enough. Can her power hitting get her out of a hole?
*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 2-2 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
All square in the second set. Can the Canadian put any pressure on the Pole’s serve?
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*Keys 6-1, 2-6, 0-1 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Azarenka opens the third and final set with a solid hold. There have been eight breaks of serve in this match, four each. Can Keys find her range with her serve when it counts?
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Azarenka wins the second set v Keys: 6-1, 2-6
Another break of serve and we’re into a decider. Keys has never beaten Azarenka: the H2H is 3-0 to the Belarusian 24th seed.
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*Hurkacz 7-6 (3), 0-1 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
The Pole took the first set on a tiebreak.
*Keys 6-1, 2-5 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Keys hits the net with another big hit to give her opponent a game point at 40-30. An unreturnable serve secures the hold for Azarenka. She is on course to force a deciding set.
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Keys 6-1, 2-4 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Keys now double faults to gift Azarenka a break point at 30-40. Keys saves it. But not a second time … Azarenka has her break back, and this match is in truth is error-strewn at the moment, even if some of the hitting is powerful and accurate from the back of the court.
In the men’s singles, Sebastian Korda (29) v Daniil Medvedev (7) is coming up later on Rod Laver Arena. That will be for the right to face either Hurkacz or Shapovalov, and could be a cracker.
*Keys 6-1, 2-3 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Tremendous hitting from both players. Keys hammers what looks a winner down the line. Azarenka scrambles to get it back. Keys goes again, and leaves her opponent standing for 30-40 …
Azarenka double-faults to give Keys the break! The Belrusian berates herself, as well she might. Keys is right back in the second set with a break apiece.
The winner of this match will progress to face one of Lin Zhu or Maria Sakkari (6) in the fourth round.
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Keys 6-1, 1-3 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Azarenka, the 24th seed, nabs a break of her own in the second set.
We’ve got a game on in Hurkacz v Shapovalov. It’s 6-5 in the first, and the Canadian must serve to stay in the set.
*Keys 6-1, 1-2 Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Madison Keys comfortably won the first against Victoria Azarenka, 6-1, and is now serving to restore parity in the second, with the Belarusian leading 2-1.
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Lehecka has a chat: “Nothing I’m not used to. I can play these matches. I knew that. I felt I can finally beat him. It was a great match … Cameron is playing incredibly, and with all you guys here to add the support, I enjoyed that a lot.”
The crowd gives him the customary cheer. The pair played in Auckland a couple of weeks ago – Norrie won – did Lehecka learn from that, he is asked.
“To find tactics on him is so tough … the only think I learned from that match is to never give up, to fight every ball, to try to grind as much as I can. I’m happy that I’m through!
“I feel amazing and ready for the next round for sure … last year it was a tough year for me, playing all four first time grand slams and never going through the first round … I’m super happy that I’m through, I knew I can beat this guy, and of course we are not at the end.”
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Lehecka beats Norrie! 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 4-6
A solid first serve is netted by Norrie for 15-0. A deep second serve is miscued by the British player for 30-0. A textbook point by Lehecka next, stretching Norrie around the court and finishing with a smart backhand volley for 40-0 … and he’s done it when Norrie can only net a backhand! The 11th seed is out!
Norrie won’t be happy with his efforts in that last game, he could and perhaps should have exerted a little more pressure, but a great job from Lehecka, who roars with delight and accepts the adulation of the crowd.
He will meet the sixth seed, Félix Auger-Aliassime, in the next round. If he can play as fearlessly as he did against Norrie he has a chance.
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Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 4-5 *Lehecka (*denotes next server)
More work to do for Norrie as Lehecka’s fluent hitting takes him to 30-30. However, the Czech hits wide for 40-30 and Norrie rounds it off to force his opponent to serve for the match. Lehecka takes a sit down and a drink, and has a chance to contemplate the achievement he is on the verge of. A fourth-round place beckons if he can win his next service game.
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*Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 3-5 Lehecka (*denotes next server)
The players go toe to toe in a powerful baseline exchange. Norrie positions himself perfectly to end it, belting a clean inside-out winner to the corner. Lehecka looks concerned to say the least.
At 15-15 Norrie comes in behind a short ball looking to end the point with a volley, but Lehecka stands firm and cracks a lovely pass beyond his opponent for 30-15. Norrie then misses for 40-15 and Lehecka keeps the momentum to hold. That’s all he needs to do …
Norrie must serve to stay in it.
Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 3-4 *Lehecka (*denotes next server)
Norrie double-faults horribly and is taken to 30-30 … but he then wins himself a game point, and converts to hold, and this is a steely final-set comeback from the 27-year-old Johannesburg-born player.
At such a young age, there would always be a worry about Lehecka getting over the finish line. Can Norrie capitalise?
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*Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 2-4 Lehecka (*denotes next server)
Stop the press! Norrie gets one of the breaks back. Given the freedom with which his young opponent has been hitting the ball, it would be some turnaround to win this final set from a double-break down.
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*Hurkacz 3-1 Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
The Canadian is on the board on Margaret Court Arena.
Keys 2-1 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Both Keys and Azarenka have now been broken in the first. Azarenka is serving to bring it back to 2-2.
Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 1-4 *Lehecka (*denotes next server)
Lehecka continues to fire off some spectacular and powerful strokes from the back of the court, committing to everything, taking Norrie to 30-30 on the British player’s serve. Norrie fluffs a backhand into the net, and it’s a break point for the Czech … But Norrie pounces to put away a fine double-handed backhand and save the break point.
Lehecka edges the next point, though, and it’s break point again … Lehecka is all over Norrie’s second serve like a rash, and buries an angled forehand winner to move a double break up. Deep trouble for Norrie.
Hurkacz 3-0 *Shapovalov (*denotes next server)
The Polish player has raced into a 3-0 lead in the first set, a break up, and is already threatening a second break of the Canadian’s serve.
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Norrie 7-6 (8), 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 1-2 *Lehecka (*denotes next server)
Norrie continues to trail and was even at risk of falling a double break down … the commentator references “mental mind games”, which sounds like a particularly intense business.
Lehecka is seeing it like a football and the commentators are purring over the sweetness with which he is striking the ball, especially on his backhand.
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Keys 1-0 *Azarenka (*denotes next server)
Madison Keys, 10th seed, begins with a hold of serve in the first set against Victoria Azarenka (24).
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Who is Jiri Lehecka, I find myself wondering this morning? He is 21, and ranked 71 in the world. This is his best result at a grand slam – he’s played them all, but never been past the first round at Wimbledon, the US Open or at Roland Garros.
He was born in Mlada Boleslav in the Czech Republic, which was named after its founder, Duke Boleslaus II, who was called “The Young One” to distinguish him from his father. (Thanks Wiki)
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Norrie 7-6, 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 0-1 Lehecka (*denotes next server)
Norrie has just been broken at the start of the fifth and final set. He also just required some attention for an injury, I am not sure what. He is up against it here …
The Australian Open will not amend its scheduling despite coming in for criticism after an epic encounter between Andy Murray and Thanasi Kokkinakis did not finish until 4am in Melbourne.
Mike Hytner reports:
Preamble
Hello again. What’s going on in Melbourne right now? Cameron Norrie has just gone into a deciding fifth set in his third-round match against Jiri Lehečka of the Czech Republic. Elsewhere in the men’s draw, Hubert Hurkacz (10) is about to start against Denis Shapovalov (20), a match that should be well worth keeping an eye on.
In the women’s singles, the pick of the games is Madison Keys (10) v Victoria Azarenka (4), which is about to get under way. It’s going to be another busy and no doubt exciting day, although I doubt there’ll be anything quite like Murray v Kokkinakis …
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