Days three and four of the Australian Open featured a range of events, including advancements by top players such as Daniil Medvedev, the final Australian Open appearance of Gael Monfils, and significant eliminations, particularly among Australian competitors. Other highlights included specific player attire, off-court interviews, and a rain delay that affected scheduled matches.
Match Results and Player Progressions
Day Three
Ukrainian player Oleksandra Oliynykova competed in her first Grand Slam singles main draw against Madison Keys. Oliynykova established an early 4-0 lead, displaying defensive play and off-pace shots, before Keys recovered to win the first set in a tiebreak and subsequently secured the match. Keys acknowledged Oliynykova's performance during post-match comments.
Italian player Luciano Darderi achieved his first Australian Open main draw victory, defeating Cristian Garin in straight sets. Following his match point, Darderi briefly left the court due to stomach issues before returning to greet the crowd. He is the second Italian player reported to have experienced similar issues during this year's tournament.
Day Four
Three-time Australian Open finalist Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round by defeating Quentin Halys in four sets (6-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2). This marks his first time reaching the third round of a Grand Slam in nearly 15 months, his last being at the US Open where he reached the quarterfinals. Post-match, Medvedev indicated he felt he was still developing power in his shots but expressed optimism about his form improving as the tournament progresses.
Player Milestones and Other News
Gael Monfils' Farewell Appearance
French player Gael Monfils concluded his 20th and final Australian Open appearance on day three, following a loss to local qualifier Dane Sweeny. The 39-year-old received applause from the crowd at Kia Arena. Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley presented Monfils with a special acknowledgment. Monfils addressed the fans, thanking them for their support since his debut in 2003.
Naomi Osaka's On-Court Attire
On day three, 16th seed Naomi Osaka entered Rod Laver Arena wearing a long, white, flowy outfit, a hat, and an umbrella. She stated the ensemble was a Nike-designed creation inspired by a jellyfish, and it featured a butterfly motif, referencing a moment from her 2021 Australian Open victory.
Jannik Sinner Interview Segment
World number two Jannik Sinner was interviewed on the "Pod Laver Arena" podcast on day four. When asked to choose between Nick Kyrgios and North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un as a doubles partner and as someone to socialize with, Sinner stated a preference for Kyrgios as a doubles partner. He expressed uncertainty regarding a social preference, after which host Mike Goldstein changed the subject. Sinner questioned the nature of the inquiry, which was followed by shared laughter.
Coco Gauff's Off-Court Interests
Following her win against Olga Danilovic, American player Coco Gauff shared that her off-season included attending live music events. She mentioned attending festivals anonymously and an Aminé concert in Melbourne just days before her first match. Gauff identified Dijon, Doechii, Clipse, Kaytranada, and Tyler, the Creator as some of her preferred artists.
Australian Players' Performance
Day Three Debut for Priscilla Hon
Australian player Priscilla Hon was scheduled to play on Rod Laver Arena for the first time in her career on day three. She was set to compete against Iva Jovic in a second-round match during a prime-time night session.
Day Four Eliminations
Five Australian players exited the tournament on day four: Priscilla Hon, Jordan Thompson, Ajla Tomljanović, Talia Gibson, and Storm Hunter. Jordan Thompson and Ajla Tomljanović have now been eliminated in the second round of the Australian Open six and seven times, respectively. Alex de Minaur was the only Australian to advance on day four, despite losing his first set.
Tournament Incidents
Rain Delay
A rain delay occurred during the night session on day four, leading to interruptions across all courts at Melbourne Park. The delay prompted discussion on social media regarding the occurrence of rain delays at a Grand Slam equipped with multiple roofed venues. The interruption impacted Alex de Minaur's momentum and temporarily halted the match between Frances Tiafoe and Francisco Comesana.