Australian Open: Michelsen Stuns Tsitsipas in First Round

Melbourne, Jan 13 (NationPress) Alex Michelsen delivered an impressive display on the opening day of the 2025 Australian Open, achieving the tournament's first major upset by overcoming former finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas with a score of 7-5, 3-6, 6-2, 6-4.

The 20-year-old American exhibited remarkable composure and accuracy, claiming his first Top 20 victory at a Grand Slam, marking his emergence on the sport's grandest platform.

Michelsen's dynamic and creative approach to the game kept the Greek star under pressure for the majority of the match. His powerful groundstrokes from both sides, along with his readiness to challenge Tsitsipas' first serves, left the 26-year-old struggling to establish a rhythm.

Throughout the contest, Michelsen executed stunning down-the-line backhands and explosive forehand winners, accumulating an impressive total of 46 winners, which included eight aces.

“I aimed to remain extremely composed; I was aware it would be a fierce contest, and I'm thrilled to have come through,” Michelsen remarked post-match. “It’s all about the right mindset. I approached the match with the correct mental attitude and successfully implemented my game plan.”

Although Michelsen dominated much of the match, the fourth set was not without its drama. Leading 4-2, he stumbled with three consecutive double faults, resulting in two service breaks, allowing Tsitsipas to even the set at 5-5. However, Tsitsipas faltered at a crucial juncture, handing Michelsen a break point with a double fault of his own. Michelsen seized the opportunity, reclaiming control and ultimately securing the set and the match, advancing to the second round.

This victory propelled Michelsen to a career-high ranking of No. 41 in the ATP Live Rankings. Notably, this was his second triumph over Tsitsipas, having previously bested the 12-time ATP titleholder in Tokyo last year. His ongoing success against higher-ranked players highlights his rapid ascent in the sport. Last month, Michelsen's journey through the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah, where he reached the semi-finals, further underscored his potential.

For Tsitsipas, this defeat represents yet another disappointing chapter in his major tournament history. The former Australian Open finalist and three-time semi-finalist in Melbourne has now failed to advance beyond the second round in his last three Grand Slam appearances, following early exits at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2024. Once regarded as a reliable contender in the latter stages of majors, Tsitsipas now faces scrutiny regarding his form and future prospects.

Michelsen's next match will be against the victor of the first-round showdown between Spanish qualifier Martin Landaluce and Australian wild card James McCabe.