Right, it’s 1am in Melbourne and late lunchtime here in the UK, and that’s today’s play – and this liveblog – done for the day. Headlines include Jabeur’s shock exit and the absorbing matches from which a riled up Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced. We’re back tomorrow for much, much more. Thanks for reading. Bye.
That was Avanesyan’s first win over a top-10 opponent, and a deserved one. She next plays the Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk, who also toppled a seed, Elise Mertens, today.
Elina Avanesyan beats Maria Sakkari 6-4, 6-4
Avanesyan makes the perfect start with an ace before pointing Sakkari all over the back of the court before smashing a volley at the net for 30-0. The No 8 seed gifts three match point with a tame backhand return into the net – and the first of them is taken in a similar fashion. That’s a seriously impressive win.
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Maria Sakkari 4-6, 4-5 Elina Avanesyan* (*denotes next server) The first ace of the match finally arrives, larruped down the middle by Sakkari for 30-15, but a limp forehand from her follows. We’re at deuce again when the Greek player steers an angled drop shot wide. She has enough about her to hold though.
Avanesyan will now serve for the match.
Maria Sakkari* 4-6, 3-5 Elina Avanesyan (*denotes next server) Sakkari gets an opening, her forceful returning taking her to 15-30 on Avanesyan’s serve but the Russian’s strong serve and then a fierce low backhand give her the advantage but more power hitting from Sakkari takes us to deuce. Again, the seeded player can’t build on it as she miscues a forehand wide of the line and that sets up Avanesyan for the hold.
Maria Sakkari 4-6, 3-4 Elina Avanesyan* (*denotes next server) A delicate drop shot at the end of a brutal rally brings Sakkari a crucial point at 30-30. It’s followed by a probing winner to the back of the court, but she skews a forehand horribly wide to then bring us to deuce. Another fine forehand winner and a searching backhand seal Sakkari the game though – she’s still fighting for this.
Maria Sakkari* 4-6, 2-4 Elina Avanesyan (*denotes next server) A couple of crisp angled winners from Sakkari are undone by needless unforced errors and Avanesyan holds to 30. She’s two games away from a big scalp and a first ever appearance in the third round here.
Maria Sakkari 4-6, 2-3 Elina Avanesyan* (*denotes next server) Thanks Sarah. And a rare hold, as Sakkari wins her service game fairly comfortably to steady things a tad. The No 8 seed is still a break down though.
I am just stepping away for some food but I leave you in the very capable hands of Tom Davies to see you through the rest of Sakkari and Avanesyan.
Maria Sakkari* 4-6, 1-3 Elina Avanesyan (*denotes next server)
An ace gives Avanesyan 15-0 and after an impressive rally of 25 shots Sakkari hits the net.
Avanesyan races to 40-0 but Sakkari hit back twice. The Greek player makes an absolute screamer of a shot to take the game to deuce.
Sakkari forces a shot long and Avanesyan seals it.
Maria Sakkari 4-6, 1-2 Elina Avanesyan* (*denotes next server)
A great rally ends in Avanesyan with a fist in the air and she doubles down, going 30-0 up. Will we see a third break on the bounce?
We might do as Sakkari hits it out but she recovers three points to send the game to deuce. But she hits the net and Avanesyan has advantage and break point. And it’s another break! This game is so good.
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Maria Sakkari* 4-6, 1-1 Elina Avanesyan (*denotes next server)
A huge cheers from the crowd as Sakkari wins the first point of the game, a great backhand shot. She backs it up with another great shot to be 30-0 up.
Sakkari now has three break points as Avanesyan smacks the net and she gets it the first time of asking.
Maria Sakkari 4-6, 0-1 Elina Avanesyan* (*denotes next server)
We have joined just as Sakkari wins advantage in the first game of the second set. She lets out a groan of frustration as she hits the net and deuce returns.
Sakkari then makes an error and Avanesyan has advantage. It’s break point but she can’t capitalise and we’re back to deuce. She gets another chance at break point after winning a fantastic rally and she takes it!
Let’s join that match now …
Elina Avanesyan has taken the first set 6-4 against Maria Sakkari.
It would be a slight upset if she sees this out in two sets.
“He had quite an easy forehand and he missed it,” Djokovic said. “I didn’t do anything special, I was lucky. He was a better player for a set-and-a-half. The momentum shifted in the tiebreak.
“I don’t think I played at the highest level, credit to him for tactically coming out with the right game plan.
“I haven’t been playing my best, I’m still trying to find the form. Particularly in the early rounds you play player who have nothing to lose, my first and second round opponents were great quality tennis players.”
Popyrin got a standing ovation as he left the court and rightfully so, he played really well.
We will hear from Djokovic shortly.
The win meant a lot to the defending champion, I am unsure I have seen him celebrate that wildly this early into a Grand Slam. He roared and punched the air repeatedly as the victory was confirmed.
Djokovic through in four-set match
Defending champion Novak Djokovic is through to the next round of the Australian Open after a hard fought win over Alexei Popyrin.
Djokovic was convincing in the first set but lost composure in the second. A superb tiebreak win in the third saw him regain form to knock out his Australian opponent.
The 10-time Australian Open champion is not at his top form yet, which is scary for his future opponents when he can dig out a win regardless.
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Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 5-3 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Djokovic is four points away from going through and he wins the first and the second through Popyrin errors.
Djokovic raced to 20-0 but Popyrin hit back two to get to 40-30, the crowd urging their countryman on. An ace saw the game go to deuce and another gave Popyrin advantage and a great forehand saw the Aussie stay in it!
Kostyuk wins three-set classic
Marta Kostyuk has knocked out Elise Mertens over three sets in a highly competitive match.
Kostyuk won 5-7, 6-1, 7-6 (10-6), a huge statement for the tournament going forward.
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Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 5-2 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Popyrin makes another error to start the latest game, I think this is done and dusted now. Not literally of course, we still have a few games to play but the momentum shift has been crazy.
A bit of Djoko excellence sees him 30-15, he liked that point as he raises his racket in celebration.
Oh now he is just playing with Popyrin like a cat does a mouse, a lovely drop shot. And he holds, Popyrin will serve to stay in this match.
Djokovic breaks! Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 4-2 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin smacks the net and then forces a shot long, if he is broken here you could say the entire match is gone such is the momentum with Djokovic.
Another error gives Djokovic three break points but he does it the first time of asking.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 3-2 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Popyrin won the first point and before Djokovic serves the next he has a shake of the head. The Aussie forces an error, 15-15.
Popyrin shakes his racket in celebration of a lightning forehand winner but he follows it up with another error. Djoko goes to 40-30 and holds.
Djokovic has said “come here and say it to my face” to a fan in the crowd, I do not know what they said to the defending champion but he wasn’t happy.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 2-2 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin did not hang around there and is level.
Djokovic stretching his fingers out.
RIP Mike Dickson
Some sad news to bring you now as it has been announced the Daily Mail journalist Mike Dickson has died while out in Melbourne to cover the Australian Open.
His family said in a statement: “We are devastated to announce that our wonderful husband and Dad, Mike, has collapsed and died while in Melbourne for the Aus Open. For 38 years he lived his dream covering sport all over the world. He was a truly great man and we will miss him terribly. Lucy, Sam, Ruby and Joe.”
Our thoughts are with them at this sad time.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 2-1 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Popyrin with two errors to start this game and Djokovic gets to 40-0 really easily.
The momentum has definitely shifted and Djoko closes out the game.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 1-1 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin needs to remain composed here, he knows he needs to win this set to stay in the grand slam. He wins the first point and expertly dispatches a forehand to go 30-0 up.
And he closes it out, so much pressure on him now.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4), 1-0 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
The tiebreak may have awoken the giant, the first point in the fourth set won by Djokovic in slick style.
An ace puts him 30-0 up and Popyrin then hit the net, a fast game.
Maria Sakkari and Elina Avanesyan have just started their match with the latter leading 2-0 in the first set.
Marta Kostyuk and Elise Mertens are in their third set with the score line Kostyuk 5-7, 6-1, 4-5 Mertens.
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Djokovic takes third set with tiebreak win. Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 7-6 (7-4) Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
An ace puts Djokovic 5-2 up, he just absolutely loves a tiebreak doesn’t he? Popyrin gets a point back though with a great looping shot.
Popyrin is taking notes from Djokovic’s book now as he sends his the wrong way to close the gap to 5-4. But he then his the net and gives Djokovic two set points.
And he gets it the first time of asking. HUGE.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 6-6 (4-2) Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Popyrin serves first but hits out of play to give Djokovic the first point of this tie break, remember the defending champion thrives in this environment. On Djokovic’s serve now and Popyrin hits a really powerful forehand to beat his opponent, 1-1.
Djokovic pops a deft drop shot over the net to regain the lead and an ace from Popyrin makes it 2-2. The Aussie makes an error with a forced shot and an absolute beauty of a shot from Djokovic put him 4-2 up – that was almost unstoppable.
The tie break continues …
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 6-6 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
I doubt Popyrin wants to face Djokovic is a tie break and so he will be looking to break him here instead.
A delightful forehand gives Djokovic first blood but he then makes an error, he is full of them today, to level it 15-15. Popyrin overhits and an ace from the defending champion puts him a point outside of holding.
He wins the game and to a tie break we go …
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 5-6 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin races to 30-0, keen to get on with this set. Djoko is unable to return his serve and so the Australian is just one point from holding.
Djokovic has a volley to delay the hold but Popyrin eventually gets it over the line.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 5-5 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Popyrin managed to break Djokovic at the end of the second set to win it so can he do it again? No he can’t!
The Aussie wins the first point with Djokovic hitting the net and he does it again – Popyrin now 30-0 up.
He lands a great shot and gives himself three break points. Djokovic defends the first with an ace and he defends the second as Popyrin sends it out. And in true Djoko fashion he fends off a third break point to send it to deuce.
The defending champion gets advantage but its back to deuce with Popyrin landing a shot.
Is this the turning point? Popyrin gets another break point with the advantage. Wow, we head back to deuce – Popyrin had his hands on his thighs then with disappointment after slightly overhitting.
The pendulum continues to swing with Sjokovic winning advantage next and he holds. Just when you think an opponent has him, he pulls that out of the bag!
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 4-5 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Oh my word! What a point. Popyrin leaped into the air on one leg to return and Djokovic hits the net.
A bit of back and forth sees Popyrin 30-15 but it looks like Djokovic is finding a second wind as he fights to level. The Aussie’s volley works again and he holds. What a match this is!
Tsitsipas through in comeback win
Well, what a well-fought battle that was. Stefanos Tsitsipas has booked his spot in the next round of the Australian Open after coming back from being one set down to Jordan Thompson.
The Greek player won 4-6, 7-6 (8-6), 6-2, 7--6 (7-4)
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Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 4-4 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
After his four-hour opener at the Australian Open, Djokovic would have been hoping this match was wrapped up much quicker but I have a sense it could go all the way.
Djokovic is 15-0 up but he then makes another error for Popyrin to level. Oh well that is beautiful from Djokovic, a light drop shot to outfox his opponent.
An unreturnable serve give Djokovic the chance to hold and he does.
Tsitsipas and Thompson have been locked in a deuce battle for the longest time, it’s currently 6-5 to Thompson in the fourth set.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 3-4 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
The crowd is alive for any good move Popyrin makes at the moment. Some aces along the way are helping his cause, he is 40-0 up now.
Djokovic isn’t going to die wondering though, he lands a great shot to open the door in this game. Popyrin manages to hold though.
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Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 3-3 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
This next game starts level at 15-15 but Popyrin, despite some trouble with his calf, gets the upperhand with a powerful forehand.
The Australian makes an unforced error and Djokovic makes a great shot for the chance of holding and he takes it.
Popyrin is okay to continue! I’ll have a Tstisipas update with you as soon as his latest set is over.
Popyrin has requested to see the medic and the team are out on court checking his calf muscle. Let’s hope he can continue.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 2-3 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Now that is classic Djokovic and it’s the first time he has smiled in about 10 games! A lovely backhand outsmarts Popyrin but the Australian dishes it right back with a volley, 15-15.
Popyrin hits the net but Djokovic then sends it out – errors coming from both at the moment. Djokovic forces another shot and Popyrin has the opportunity to close out the game, he takes it.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 2-2 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic gets to 30-0, the latest point an ace. Popyrin sends a shot long and Djokovic holds in a lightning fast game.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 1-2 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Wow, Popyrin take a bow. He wins a cracking point after Djokovic poured energy into winning a rally with a deft backhand. Just stunning tennis.
A powerful forehand is cancelled out by a point from Djokovic but he manages to turn the screw again. A long rally ends with a magical lob from Popyrin, sending the crowd wild. He is edging the crucial moments.
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Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6, 1-1 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic’s coaching box also don’t look too impressed with how the match is playing out at the moment, a lot of whispering going on.
An ace starts Djokovic’s service game. A great return from Popyrin gets him on the board. An overhit forehand gives Djokovic 30-15 and he eventually holds.
There had been talk about Djokovic potentially having a cold and I wouldn’t be surprised, he looks a bit lethargic out there.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-6, 0-1 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
The question is now, can Popyrin back up the set win? At the moment he is, leading 30-15 in the first game of the third set.
Djokovic is looking frustrated so if Popyrin can land a few more punches he could get a foothold. The Serb levels at 30-30 but Popyrin replies with an ace and then Djokovic sends it out.
Popyrin wins second set. Novak Djokovic 6-3, 4-6 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Players don’t get many opportunities to really hand it to Djokovic and that would have been the perfect time to land a blow in this match but Popyrin let it slide by. Can he land the blow now?
It’s 15-15 and Popyrin apologises as his shot hits the net and bounces over. Djokovic hits the net and Popyrin has set point. Djokovic defends the first of two set points but he can’t defend the second!
Popyrin gees up the crowd, huge moment.
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Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 4-5 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
A double fault and another few errors sees Popyrin gift Djokovic the first points of this game and get to break point, potentially a bit of pressure getting to him.
Popyrin manages to collect him though to defend the first of three break points. An ace see him defend the second but he can’t defend the third. A massive opportunity wasted.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 3-5 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic will serve to stay in this set and he produces another unforced error to give Popyrin a 15-0 lead.
The Australian can’t return his serve next and then he sends it out. Djokovic looks frustrated as he loses his challenge on an out call.
He does manage to hold though and Popyrin will serve for the second set.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 2-5 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
A lovely bit of play there, both players sending each other around the court but it is Popyrin who comes out on top – the crowd absolutely loving their home hero.
Now that is beautiful, Popyrin uses his forehand on the baseline to send Djokovic the wrong way and he quickly dispatches of the match.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 2-4 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic is not one to stay out of form for long and he quickly gets to 30-0. Despite the better play he doesn’t look happy put there, his expression far from what you’d expect.
He holds with a good game for the defending champion.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 1-4 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin definitely has the home crowd on his side now, an ace renders a huge cheer. A volley winner omits the same reaction, the atmosphere electric in the Rod Laver.
Djokovic hits the net and Popyrin is soaring and an ace seals the game.
Popyrin breaks! Novak Djokovic 6-3, 1-3 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Is Djokovic getting a little shaken here? He was shouting to his coaching box in the break and Popyrin has won the first points of this game.
Djokovic sends the ball long and Popyrin doesn’t react, he had been shouting when winning points in the first set. The Australian can’t return his serve but the Serbian then sends it long to give Popyrin break point.
Oh my word! Popyrin runs to pick up the ball close to the net, Djokovic returns but the Aussie hits it long and break. Huge.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 1-2 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
A lovely forehand from Popyrin opens the game but Djokovic thinks ‘anything you can do I can do better’ and slices a pinpoint ball into the top left corner.
Two efficient shots from Popyrin evoked a roar from the crowd and he holds his serve!
Rublev through with straight sets win over Eubanks
Andrey Rublev has knocked out Chris Eubanks in straight sets to progress.
Rublev executed the match 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
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Tsitsipas has found his feet in the match now, taking the third set 6-2. He lost the first set but took the second after a tie break against Thompson.
Novak Djokovic 6-3, 1-1 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
An impressive 19-shot rally ends with Popyrin sending the ball out. The Australian lofts the ball in the air, it has too much power and height and it out.
Djokovic forces a shot, he goes wide down the right when he really didn’t need to and it give Popyrin a foot in this game. The world number one then hits the net, an uncharacteristic error, 30-30. He manages to collect himself and see out the game though.
Get in touch with your best tennis puns, I bet you will all be ace at it.
Novak Djokovic* 6-3, 0-1 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
There is no sign of Popyrin letting the first set loss effect him as he races to 30-0 with an impressive serve. A lovely forehand right on the baseline forces Djokovic to hit the net and Popyrin holds in a well-played game.
Korda through in straight sets win
Sebastian Korda is through to the next round after a consistent performance against Quentin Halys.
The American recorded a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, win over the Frenchman.
Djokovic wins first set. Novak Djokovic 6-3 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic is serving for the set and it starts perfectly for him as Popyrin sends the ball out. But the Australian sends Djokovic the wrong way and the Serbian can’t stretch to return, 15-15.
An unreturnable serve and a great shot sees Djokovic on two set points but he only needs one.
Djokovic breaks! Novak Djokovic* 5-3 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
A close encounter by the net sees Djokovic register the first points in this game. But he then forces a shot long and so we are at 15-15.
On Djokovic’s serve the games are wrapped up so efficiently but on Popyrin’s it takes much longer – the power of the defending champions serve clear in the early stages.
Djokovic earns break point after winning off the back of a 28-shot rally, hugely impressive from both there. Popyrin uses a towel to wipe the court, he might be slipping around out there, it doesn’t help though as Djokovic breaks.
Novak Djokovic 4-3 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
A long shot and then a non-return from Popyrin, he is gifting Djokovic points on his serve. An unreturnable serve from the defending champion gives him 40-0 and Popyrin sends it long.
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Novak Djokovic* 3-3 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Now it’s Popyrin who is not hanging around on serve, executing well to get to 30-0. But he then tries to be slightly too clever with a drop shot and hits the net.
The Australian’s serve has started to falter and it has now given Djokovic break point. The crowd are really getting behind Popyrin now as he sends the game to deuce.
An ace gives him advantage and another sees him hold, very well played there as he was under a lot of pressure.
Etcheverry though with win over Monfils
Tomas Martin Etcheverry shouted and hit balls into the crowd as he saw out a straight sets win over Gael Monfils.
He won 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 to knock the Frenchman out.
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Novak Djokovic 3-2 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Djokovic is taking command of this game as he directs the ball left and right to race to a 40-0 lead.
He closes it out easily, when he’s in form little can stop him.
Novak Djokovic* 2-2 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin sends a shot long but wins another impressive rally to level it 15-15.
Djokovic slides to collect the ball but Popyrin is waiting close to the net and smashes to win the point. He then hits the net to allow Djokovic back into the game. The Serbian gets break point but Popyrin sends it to deuce, this is quite the battle already.
Djokovic has advantage with a shot from the Australian going long but the defending champion can’t close it out and then hands advantage to Popyrin with a weak forehand, who then holds.
Tsitsipas has won the second set against Thompson but he had to work hard to get it. After losing the first set 6-4, the Greek player closed out the second on a tie break and took it 7-6 (8-6).
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Novak Djokovic 2-1 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Three out calls for Popyrin sees Djokovic 40-0 up really quickly in this third game. But the Australian perfectly places a shot on his backhand to open the door.
Djokovic slams the door shut though with an impressive rally\
Novak Djokovic* 1-1 Alexei Popyrin (*denotes next server)
Popyrin attempts a volley but it hits the net, he follows it up with a great winner on a rally of 23 shots.
A deft drop shot is well played from the Australian to give him 30-15 and Djokovic sends the ball long. Popyrin seals the game though, this match could be another long one for Djokovic.
Novak Djokovic 1-0 Alexei Popyrin* (*denotes next server)
Here we go then. Djokovic won the toss and chose to serve first and his first was unreturnable giving him 15-0.
Popyrin sends a shot out but then Djokovic does the same. I had forgotten how long it takes Djokovic to serve, so much bouncing of the ball before he begins. An ace gives the 10-time Australian Open champion a chance to hold and he does just that.
Frances Tiafoe knocked out
American Frances Tiafoe has been knocked out in straight sets after an impressive performance by Czech player Tomas Machac.
Machac won 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 (7-5).
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Novak Djokovic and Alexei Popyrin are out on court and the crowd are ready for this one. Not only do they have defending champion Djokovic but they have home talent Popyrin.
The stands are stacked for what is set to be a great match.
Novak Djokovic v Alexei Popyrin is minutes away, get in touch and let me know your predictions.
Some score updates for you before Novak Djokovic comes out onto court:
Eubanks 4-6, 0-0 Rublev
Thompson 6-4, 3-4 Tsitsipas
Tiafoe 4-6, 4-6, 6-5 Machac
Adrian Mannarino wins thriller against Jaume Munar
French player Adrian Mannarino is through after a well-fought five-set battle against Jaume Munar.
He won 6-3, 6-3, 1-6, 2-6, 6-3. Wow, what a match.
Sabalenka said: “I think for 16-years-old she is doing an incredible job. I wish I was at that level at 16. I am sure if she keeps working she will be in the top three soon. I am super happy with the win.
“I was just trying not to think about it too much [Andreeva’s win over Jabeur]. I was just focusing on myself.”
Fruhvirtova gets a well-earned standing ovation as she leaves the court, she played well particularly in the first set.
We will hear from Sabalenka now.
Aryna Sabalenka through with 6-3, 6-2 win against Brenda Fruhvirtova
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka is through to the next round after a straight sets win over Brenda Fruhvirtova.
Sabalenka was really pushed in the first set. She had led 2-0 but Fruhvirtova fought back to level the set, once Sabalenka broke her again the first set was sewn up. Sabalenka was then efficient in the second set, with her serve much more effective, and her title defence marches on.
Fruhvirtova is definitely one to watch in the future. The 16-year-old was impressive on court.
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Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-6, 2-5 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
The crowd are really getting behind the qualifier now as she serves to stay in the Australian Open.
Her serve holds well, as it has done all match, but Sabalenka has one hand on the win and won’t let it drop. The game does to 40-30 but a delicious shot from Fruhvirtova means Sabalenka will serve for the match.
Brenda Fruhvirtova* 3-6, 1-5 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
An ace from Sabalenka here, her serve is cooking with gas now after a shaky start to this match.
She races to a 40-0 lead and she sees it out. Fruhvirtova will be serving to stay in the match.
Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-6, 1-4 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Despite having an impressive lead Sabalenka looks frustrated as she hits the net. She then runs to try and return a great close-range effort from Fruhvirtova but she can’t collect.
A double fault sees the game 30-15 and Sabalenka manages to eventually send it to deuce. But the teenager holds and wins her first game of the second set.
Brenda Fruhvirtova* 3-6, 0-4 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
Now it is Sabalenka’s turn to force some errors, sending an easier shot straight out. She recovers to lead 30-15 and she has a quick opportunity to hold serve as Fruhvirtova hits the net.
She does just that and Sabalenka looks sure to tie this match up now.
Caroline Garcia knocked out by Magdalena Frech
Magdalena Frech knelt to the ground and let out a roar as she closed out a straight sets win over Caroline Garcia.
The Polish star won 6-4, 7-5 (7-2).
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Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-6, 0-3 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Fruhvirtova is rushing a lot of her shots at the moment and has gifted Sabalenka a 30-0 lead in this game.
The defending champion’s shot this time is too powerful for the teenager to reach and so Sabalenka once again has break point. And she does it.
Brenda Fruhvirtova* 3-6, 0-2 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
A wildy long shot from Fruhvirtova to start this game and Sabalenka races to 30-0. The first set saw the defending champion a bit wobbly but she has found her footing now and I wouldn’t be surprised if she wrapped this match up quickly.
She sews up the game efficiently.
Tsitsipas has lost the first set to Thompson 6-4, an interesting match playing out there.
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Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-6, 0-1 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Into the second set we go and it is Fruhvirtova first to serve. At 30-15 Sabalenka wins a lovely shot, she moves close to the net to return some fast shots and then she volleys to level.
Fruhvirtova claims a point back but Sabalenka tastes blood and she is going for the kill, deuce. Sabalenka earns an early break point, just as she did in the first set, and she closes it out.
Jordan Thompson v Stefanos Tsitsipas has started with the Australian currently having a 5-4 lead in the first set.
Chris Eubanks v Audrey Rublev has also just got underway. I’ll bring you those updates as and when I can.
Sabalenka wins first set. Brenda Fruhvirtova* 3-6 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
Fruhvirtova knows she needs to win this game in order to stay in this set and starts well, winning the first points but Sabalenka soon levels.
The 16-year-old hits back once again but, just as this match seems to be, Sabalenka lands her own blow and we’re 30-30.
Sabalenka wins set point as Fruhvirtova sends her forehand long and the defending champion does it!
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Sabalenka breaks! Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-5 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
We have new balls as we start this game. Sabalenka lets out a huge sigh as Fruhvirtova claims the first points.
The game quickly becomes 30-30, Sabalenka really having to fight here to get points with Fruhvirtova giving her a great match. The defending champion earns break point but Fruhvirtova sends it to deuce. Deuce goes back and forth but Sabalenka gets break point and she gets it.
Brenda Fruhvirtova* 3-4 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
That is stunning from Sabalenka, a forehand on almost full stretch just in gives her 15-0. Fruhvirtova smacks the net but she then wins a long rally, maybe the longest of the match so far.
Another fist pump from Sabalenka as her forehand gives her 40-15 and she once again restores her lead in the match with a well-played shot down the right.
Brenda Fruhvirtova 3-3 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Fruhvirtova is enjoying her tennis on serve, racing to a 30-0 lead. But I have given her the commentators curse as she then gives away a point on serve, apologies Fruhvirtova.
She earns applause from the crowd with a well placed shot, forcing Sabalenka’s effort wide. She then sews up the game, this is quite the encounter.
Photograph: Tracey Nearmy/Reuters
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Ben Shelton through after victory over four sets
US Open finalist Ben Shelton is through to the next round after a 6-4, 6-1, 3-6, 7-6 (7-5) win over Christopher O’Connell.
He was really pushed in those last few sets but he managed to get it over the line. Shelton used his signature celebration of a stare into the camera with a fist pump.
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Brenda Fruhvirtova* 2-3 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
A fist pump from Sabalenka as she lands a beautiful shot and then sends another in the opposite direction of Fruhvirtova.
The qualifier sends a shot long and Sabalenka has the opportunity to wrap this game up quickly. She does just that.
Brenda Fruhvirtova 2-2 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Sabalenka can’t return serve but she then smashes a volley to level 15-15. Fruhvirtova plays another unreturnable serve, it is becoming a real asset in this match, and Sabalenka’s return is then long.
This would be a good blow to land for the 16-year-old to level the match after going 2-0 and she does it. We have a match on our hands.
Fruhvirtova breaks back! Brenda Fruhvirtova* 1-2 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
Sabalenka is not looking totally comfortable, not in that she has an injury but she hasn’t come out in her best form yet. She puts too much on her forehand twice to give Fruhvirtova a 30-0 lead. She is also taking longer over her serve after the double fault in the first game and some first serve errors.
Again Sabalenka’s forehand is long and Fruhvirtova has break point. And she breaks! A huge moment.
Sabalenka breaks! Brenda Fruhvirtova 0-2 Aryna Sabalenka* (*denotes next server)
Fruhvirtova’s serve starts well but her returning shots just aren’t on the money yet as she sends it out twice to give Sabalenka 30-0. The teenager fights back with a forehand tricking the defending champion and another powerful shots levels the game 30-30.
A double fault sees Sabalenka on an early break point but she then sends the ball into the net, we have deuce again. Both players haven’t settled into this encounter just yet. Sabalenka shouts “come on” as she wins advantage and does so again when she breaks.
Elsewhere in the tournament Paula Badosa has beaten Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3.
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Brenda Fruhvirtova* 0-1 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
Sabalenka starts the match quickly and races to 30-0 with some errors coming from 16-year-old Fruhvirtova. The defending champion then hits the net on a return but Fruhvirtova goes long on a forehand to gift Sabalenka 40-15. Two double fault comes next and Sabalenka looks to the crowd in frustration and she lets out a sigh, to deuce we go.
A lovely shot into the right corner of the court gives Fruhvirtova advantage but Sabalenka directs the ball left and right to reduce it back to deuce. She wraps up the game but her serve is a slight worry in the early stages.
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Brenda Fruhvirtova* 0-0 Aryna Sabalenka (*denotes next server)
Here we go then, will we see another upset today? Or will defending champion Sabalenka blow the teenager away? All the action to come.
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A really warm welcome for Sabalenka here as the players finish up their warm-up. Elsewhere, Ben Shelton is close to winning his match against Christopher O’Connell with the score there 6-4, 6-1, 3-6, 6-5.
Qualifier Brenda Fruhvirtova and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka are out on court and their match will start imminently. But first here are some top stories from the day’s action so far:
There are multiple matches taking place right now but here is a few score updates:
Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 1-2 Tomas Machac
Gael Monfils 1-1 Tomas Martin Etcheverry
Caroline Garcia 4-6, 1-1 Magdalena Frech
Preamble
Hello and welcome to day four of the Australian Open. Well, I say welcome but the tennis action started a few hours ago and I’ll bring you the headlines of the action so far today shortly.
There are some cracking matches to look forward to for the rest of the day, here are some headline matches:
Brenda Fruhvirtova v (Aryna Sabalenka
Novak Djokovic v Alexei Popyrin
Maria Sakkari v Elina Avanesyan
Jordan Thompson v Stefanos Tsitsipas
We will of course bring you all of the news from all confirmed results too. Before we get tothe action, just one more piece of housekeeping, a reminder to get in touch. You can email me or contact me via X – @rendellx – on your tennis takes or anything really. I’d love to know where in the world you are right now.
Okay, let’s get to some tennis …
