Tue Jan 14 13:38:01 UTC 2025: ## Upset in Men’s Draw, Raducanu Advances Despite Wobbly Serve at Australian Open

**Melbourne, Australia** – Day three of the Australian Open saw several notable upsets and nail-biting victories. The biggest surprise came in the men’s draw, where Brazilian qualifier João Fonseca, 18, defeated ninth-seeded Andrey Rublev in straight sets, 7-6(1), 6-3, 7-6(5). Fonseca’s powerful forehand, which accounted for 51 winners in the match, proved too much for the Russian. The young Brazilian showcased impressive composure, particularly in the third set, overcoming a break deficit to clinch victory in a tiebreaker.

Meanwhile, Australian hope Alex de Minaur eased into the second round with a 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 win over Botic van de Zandschulp, further fueling hopes of a homegrown champion. However, the day also saw its share of drama. Daniil Medvedev, the fifth seed and last year’s runner-up, overcame a temper tantrum involving a destroyed racquet and net camera to defeat Kasidit Samrej in five sets, 6-2, 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, but not before incurring a hefty fine.

In the women’s draw, several seeded players progressed. Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina secured convincing victories, while Emma Raducanu edged out 26th-seeded Ekaterina Alexandrova in a tense 7-6(4), 7-6(2) match. Raducanu’s win was marked by a surprisingly erratic serve, which produced 15 double faults, despite the eventual victory. The British player attributed the issue to her serve having “a mind of its own,” highlighting the challenges of her return from injury.

Read More