(Melbourne) After two innings of play in Quebec’s Félix Auger-Aliassime’s second-round duel on Monday night, social networks were already buzzing.
It looked like sixth-seeded Auger-Aliassime was in for a big upset, but he came from behind to defeat Slovakia’s Alex Molcan in five sets at the Australian Open.
Auger-Aliassime came out 3-6, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 after just over three hours of play at Melbourne Park.
The Quebecer, who had experienced difficulties in the first set in the first round against the Canadian Vasek Pospisil, took advantage of a collapse of Molcan to regain his composure.
“I believed in myself after winning the third round. I’ve come from behind before and felt like I could do it again. But it was a tough day,” said Auger-Aliassime, who finished the match with 23 aces.
All matches on the outdoor courts have been postponed due to rain.
PHOTO NG HAN GUAN, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Bianca Andreescu
Canada’s Bianca Andreescu was still able to play her match, but was eliminated with a second-round loss to Cristina Bucsa of Spain, 100e world racket in the WTA rankings.
The 22-year-old Ontarian lost in three sets, 6-2, 6-7 (9) and 4-6 to her 25-year-old rival who came from qualifying.
It was the first duel between the two players.
Cristina Bucsa, who is seeking a first career title, will face the daunting task of meeting tournament favorite and No. 1 player in the world Iga Swiatek of Poland, who disposed earlier on Wednesday Colombian Camila Osorio in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3.
As for the Ontarian Denis Shapovalov, he was waiting to face the Japanese Taro Daniel, as part of their second round match.