De Minaur Faces Michelsen in Australian Open Quarter-Final Clash

MELBOURNE, Australia — Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur faced off against rising American talent Alex Michelsen in a thrilling fourth-round match at the Australian Open on Monday. De Minaur, seeking his first quarter-final berth at his home Grand Slam, took an early lead, breaking Michelsen in the first game of the match.

The two players, both named Alex, have met twice before, with each claiming a victory. Michelsen won their last hard-court encounter, while de Minaur triumphed on clay. The match, played under the lights at Rod Laver Arena, drew a packed crowd eager to see if de Minaur could continue his strong form.

Meanwhile, world No. 1 Iga Swiatek cruised into the quarter-finals with a dominant 6-0, 6-1 victory over lucky loser Eva Lys. Swiatek, who has yet to drop a set in the tournament, praised the atmosphere at Rod Laver Arena. “That was my first night session, so I am happy that I had the chance to play on Rod Laver Arena with such an amazing atmosphere,” she said. Swiatek will face the winner of the Daria Kasatkina and Emma Navarro match, which went to a deciding third set.

In other action, top seed Jan Kumstat rallied from a set point down to defeat Cruz Hewitt 6-3, 7-6 (9-7). Hewitt, the son of former world No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt, received a standing ovation despite the loss. Kumstat, two years older than Hewitt, showcased his experience in a tightly contested match.

Ben Shelton advanced to the quarter-finals after Gael Monfils retired from their fourth-round match. The 38-year-old Frenchman battled through three tiebreaks before conceding. Shelton, who reached the quarter-finals for the second time in his career, praised Monfils for his longevity and entertainment value. “At 38 years old, I hope I’m still walking without crutches,” Shelton joked. “To push me the way he did today and to entertain everyone the way he has is so impressive.”

As the tournament progresses, all eyes remain on de Minaur, who carries the hopes of a nation. With his speed and defensive skills, he is widely tipped to overcome Michelsen, though the young American has shown he is not to be underestimated.