Australian tennis pair James Duckworth and Adam Walton are set to compete at the Adelaide International after successfully qualifying for the main draw, following the withdrawal of two prominent players.
This year's tournament witnessed the defending champion, Czech player Jiri Lehecka, pulling out due to fatigue. Lehecka, who claimed the title at Brisbane International just the previous evening, had dominated the finals until American Reilly Opelka had to retire due to back issues within just 15 minutes of their match. Lehecka's unexpected exit means the Adelaide competition will miss its reigning champion.
Adding to the changes, Tomas Machac, the third seed from the Czech Republic, also withdrew. Machac announced he was sidelined owing to a left knee ailment sustained during lead-up competitions for the fast-approaching Australian Open, which is set to begin on January 12 in Melbourne.
Despite these setbacks for the tournament, the Adelaide International features formidable competitors, including local sensation Thanasi Kokkinakis. Kokkinakis was set to face off against Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka on Monday night, igniting local support and enthusiasm.
On the other hand, America’s top seed at the event, Tommy Paul, is eager to make his mark. Duckworth and Walton advanced to the tournament after both winning their respective matches against fellow Australians during the qualifying rounds. Duckworth showcased his skills by defeating wildcard Jacob Bradshaw decisively with a score of 6-2, 6-2. Meanwhile, Walton exhibited resilience, recovering from a rough start against Rinky Hijikata to secure victory with 1-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4.
Monday’s event included the only men’s first-round fixture before the scheduled evening matches. Canada’s Denis Shapovalov secured a remarkable upset by defeating China’s ninth seed Zhizhen Zhang, winning convincingly with scores of 6-3, 6-4. This match adds excitement and unpredictability to what has already been an eventful beginning to the tournament.
The Adelaide International paves the way for rising local talents like Duckworth and Walton, as well as established stars like Kokkinakis and Paul, setting the stage for thrilling matches leading up to the Australian Open. The adjustments within the tournament showcase the unpredictable nature of pro tennis, where player fitness and continuity often dictate the extent of participation and excitement.
With just days left until the Australian Open kicks off, competitors are eager to build momentum, especially Duckworth and Walton, who are making the most of the opportunity presented by the withdrawals. The outcome of the Adelaide International can serve as a springboard for their aspirations as they vie for recognition at Australia's pinnacle tennis event.