Medvedev is shaking at the Australian Open: Racket broken, victory saved!

At the Australian Open, last year's finalist Daniil Medvedev narrowly turned the tide today. The 28-year-old Russian, currently fifth in the ATP world rankings, fought his way through an exciting first round match against the Thai wildcard player Kasidit Samrej (ATP 418th). After a mixed performance and a tantrum that resulted in the destruction of his rackets, Medvedev finally won 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1 and 6-2. However, his performance leaves a lot to be desired - in the next round a significant improvement against the 19-year-old American Learner Tien will be urgently needed, as Sky Sports reported.

Favorites prevail

The other favorites were also able to convince: Taylor Fritz, fourth in the world rankings, gave his compatriot Jenson Brooksby no chance and won easily in the first round with 6:2, 6:0, 6:3. Friszt, a well-known feared opponent for Alexander Zverev, demonstrated his strong form at the beginning of the new tennis year. The Italian superstar Matteo Berrettini and the Dane Holger Rune, who prevailed after a tough fight against Zhang Zhizhen 4:6, 6:3, 6:4, 3:6, 6:4, also advanced to the next round. Hubert Hurkacz and Francisco Cerundolo complete the successful podium of the first round winners.

There was also a highlight from old master Gael Monfils, who won the exciting duel against his compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who was ranked 30th. Monfils, who recently won a historic title in Auckland, prevailed after a thrilling five-set thriller 7:6 (9:7), 6:3, 6:7 (6:8), 6:7 (5:7) and 6:4. The spectators experienced a spectacle full of rallies that brought the old master back to the big stage. How Laola1 It remains to be seen whether Medvedev and other favorites can improve their performance in the coming rounds.