Ex-Australian Open champ causes scene as ace’s reaction speaks volumes | Tennis | Sport

Day three of the Australian Open is over, and once again, there has been no shortage of action in Melbourne.

Icons of the game took to the stage as Naomi Osaka and Jannik Sinner got their campaigns up and running, but it proved a difficult day for the Brits. Sonay Kartal and Katie Boulter both made their exits in first-round defeats, as neither was able to overcome their underdog status against seeded stars Anna Kalinskaya and Belinda Bencic.

Two-time defending champion Sinner played just two sets as his opponent, Hugo Gaston, was forced to retire mid-match. The Italian star is seeded second in the tournament for 2026.

Osaka caught the attention of all-comers with her stunning attire and was able to impress with her ability on the court too. The 2019 and 2021 champion didn’t have it all her own way but came through against Antonia Ruzic 6-3, 3-6, 6-4.