Stefanos Tsitsipas powers through to next round of Australian Open

·

Stefanos Tsitsipas wasted little time in reaching the third round at the Australian Open on Wednesday when he moved past Australian wild card Rinky Hijikata 6-3, 6-0, 6-2 to continue his title quest.

The Greek, who is a three-time semi-finalist in Melbourne, was in control throughout the one-hour, 32-minute clash against Hijikata. He constantly overpowered the World No. 169 with his fierce ballstriking, hitting 30 winners on Rod Laver Arena.

“It felt good out there,” Tsitsipas said. “The ball was coming out of the racquet really well. I really enjoyed myself, I was great for the entire match. I always enjoy playing on the Rod Laver Arena, I have some good memories here.”

The World No. 4 successfully drove his backhand through the court to force Hijikata into errors and was strong on serve at the key moments, saving all five break points he faced to improve to 6-0 on the season. Tsitsipas will next meet Botic van de Zandschulp or Tallon Griekspoor.

Coach Mark Philippoussis watched his charge soar to victory against Hijikata. Tsitsipas is thrilled with how their partnership is developing.

“He brings a lot to the game,” Tsitsipas said when asked the Australian. “He has played amazing tennis himself in his career, won a lot of matches here and has tons of experience. He has been helping me a lot with serve and volley. He has been helping with my offensive game.”

The 24-year-old is chasing his maiden major crown this fortnight. Should the third seed go all the way in Melbourne, he would also overtake the injured Carlos Alcaraz to become No. 1 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings for the first time.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

GOCNSW Home for the Aged welcomes Consul General and celebrates its donors

The Greek Orthodox Community Home for the Aged played host to the Consul General of Greece in Sydney and some of its major donors.

Father Athanasios Giatsios appointed Orthodox Chaplain at Macquarie University

Father Athanasios Giatsios has been appointed as the new Orthodox Chaplain at Macquarie University. Read more here.

Spiro Pappas honoured at Emirates Business Awards 2025 for Sustainable Innovation

Entrepreneur Spiro Pappas, Founder and CEO of Eureka-Tec, was honoured at the Emirates Business Awards 2025.

Oakleigh grandfather’s 40-year lottery dream comes true with $1 million win

An Oakleigh man spotted his lottery numbers printed in the newspaper, revealing a $1 million Weekday Windfall win.

Strong Australian presence at opening of 1st Global Summit of Hellenic Lawyers in Athens

The Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece, was transformed into a vibrant microcosm of the Greek Australian community on Monday evening, July 7.

You May Also Like

Maria Sakkari slams her way into the next round of the Australian Open

In the first grand slam of the year, Maria Sakkari , No. 6 in the world ranking, prevailed 2-0 against Yue Wan from China.

Build a body like King Leonidas with Gerard Butler’s workout routine and diet plan

In the film, we saw the actor truly get immersed in the role of the Greek King, as he flexed a ridiculous physique and six-pack abs.

Basil Zempilas launches campaign to become Perth’s next Lord Mayor

Greek Australian radio host Basil Zempilas announced on his social media platforms that he will be running as Perth's next Lord Mayor.