The third round of the Australian Open saw several top players assert their title credentials, with Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev leading the charge into the second week. Meanwhile, nine-time champion Novak Djokovic remains firmly in the hunt for a record-extending 10th crown in Melbourne and his 25th major overall.
Alcaraz Overcomes Borges Challenge
Third seed Carlos Alcaraz faced his first real test of the tournament but still emerged victorious in four sets over Portugal’s Nuno Borges. The 21-year-old Spaniard prevailed 6-2, 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena to reach the fourth round for the second consecutive year.
Alcaraz raced through the first two sets but Borges, ranked 33rd, snatched the third in a tiebreak to the frustration of the Spaniard. However, Alcaraz quickly regained control, breaking early in the fourth to seal his spot in the last 16 after just under three hours.
“I missed Rod Laver Arena. I’m just really happy to be able to play here once again and show my best tennis here. It’s a beautiful court.”
– Carlos Alcaraz
Alcaraz, who already owns two Wimbledon titles and one each at the US Open and French Open, is bidding to complete his set of Grand Slam trophies in Melbourne. The 2023 quarterfinalist revealed his unique plans should he triumph.
“It’ll be a kangaroo.”
– Carlos Alcaraz on his tattoo idea if he wins the Australian Open
Zverev, Paul Advance in Straight Sets
Second seed Alexander Zverev had a more routine path into the fourth round, dispatching Britain’s Jack Draper 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. The German is rounding into ominous form as he chases his first major title.
American Tommy Paul also advanced in emphatic fashion, thrashing Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain 7-6 (0), 6-2, 6-0. It marks Paul’s best result at the Australian Open as he continues his breakout on the Grand Slam stage.
Djokovic Marches On
Nine-time champion Novak Djokovic encountered few troubles in his third-round clash, ousting 8th seed Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-2, 6-3. The victory was Djokovic’s 25th in a row at the Australian Open.
Djokovic is seeking a men’s record 25th Grand Slam singles title, having tied Rafael Nadal’s mark of 22 by winning Wimbledon last year. An elusive 10th Australian Open crown would return the Serb to world No. 1.
The fourth round begins on Sunday with Alcaraz, Zverev, and Djokovic all back in action. Only seven matches now stand between these leading contenders and the coveted Norman Brookes Challenge Cup.
