Australian Open 2025 was rife with drama on Day 4, showcasing heart-stopping matches and unexpected eliminations, most prominently featuring Australian player Thanasi Kokkinakis, who suffered disappointment at the hands of Britain's Jack Draper.
After nearly five hours of intense competition, Draper rallied from behind to defeat Kokkinakis with scores of 6-7 (3-7), 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3. This match epitomized resilience and determination as both players battled for supremacy on the court, with the crowd increasingly invested as the match unfolded. Draper’s victory was particularly sweet, as he had previously faced severe challenges before advancing.
“It just had to happen to these two guys; it was always going to go to five [sets] and it was always going to be a killer for the one who came out on the wrong end of it,” stated commentator Abigail Johnson on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, capturing the tense atmosphere surrounding the encounter.
Both players exchanged blows, with moments of sheer athletic brilliance from Kokkinakis as he served for the match early on. But Draper’s persistence shone through, and he seized on momentary lapses from Kokkinakis, culminating in the Australian's heartbreaking loss.
Gigi Salmon, another commentator, mused about Kokkinakis’ changing demeanor during the match: “The reactions of Thanasi Kokkinakis are starting to slow up, he’s not alert when the return arrives back.” This observed fatigue hinted at the toll the match had taken on the Australian, who had shown great tenacity but could not turn the tide.
Beyond the Kokkinakis drama, this day of the tournament marked the successful progression of significant names, including Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic, among others. Sabalenka, defending her title, put on another dominant performance, reflecting the consistency expected of her at this level. At the same time, Djokovic, competing with renewed vigor and Andy Murray by his side as part of his coaching team, continued his pursuit of the trophy he has hoisted numerous times.
The mood was markedly different for other Australian players, as local hopes Jordan Thompson, James Duckworth, Ajla Tomljanovic, and Talia Gibson all faced early exits from the competition, lighting up the possibility of mixed emotions among the home crowd.
While Jack Draper celebrated his significant achievement, now advancing to the third round, fellow Brit Jacob Fearnley made headlines too, winning against Arthur Cazaux, thereby reaching the Grand Slam third round for the first time. This resurgence serves as ample evidence for the ever-shifting dynamics of the Australian tennis scene, particularly during Grand Slam events.
Real traction was also made by Aleksandar Vukic, reaching the third round by triumphing over American 22nd seed Sebastian Korda. Vukic’s match showcased not only his talent but the unpredictability of the tournament, as he decisively defeated Korda, stressing the proficiency players must maintain throughout the arduous match conditions.
At the same time, the astonishing reality of the day's matches led to major upsets with last year’s losing finalist Qinwen Zheng and sixth seed Casper Ruud both crashing out of the tournament early.
Closing the day's chapters on Melbourne Park courts, spectator sentiments were mixed as players prepared for the next challenging rounds. Leading up to Day 5, eyes will remain glued on not just the matches but the potential for more shocks, as undetermined players seek to carve their paths toward glory.
With many anticipated matches still on the horizon, including appearances from acclaimed players like Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev, and Iga Swiatek, the excitement surrounding the 2025 Australian Open continues to rise, ensuring this Grand Slam is unforgettable.