On Day 4 of the Australian Open 2025, players from various backgrounds showcased their talents, leading to thrilling matches and remarkable displays on the court. Notably, world No. 3 Coco Gauff displayed resilience as she overcame Briton Jodie Burrage, winning 6-3, 7-5 to secure her place in the third round. Despite showing dominance, Gauff faced challenges, especially when she fell behind 3-5 during the second set. Nevertheless, her tenacity shone through as she rallied to secure victory, extending her win streak to seven matches this season.
“It was tough,” Gauff said post-match, reflecting on the challenges presented by her opponent. “She was serving really well so I was just trying to manage.” Gauff recognized the need to improve her serving, noting her seven double faults during the match. The American seemed to have total control at first, but the match highlighted her vulnerability. Burrage, though defeated, found success returning to high-level competition after significant injury setbacks and demonstrated considerable skill against her higher-ranked opponent.
Meanwhile, two-time Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka celebrated her return to form with great enthusiasm, securing her place in the third round with a hard-fought 1-6, 6-1, 6-3 victory over 20th seed Karolina Muchova. After struggling through last year's majors without winning against seeded players, Osaka expressed relief and determination as she aimed for greater achievements this season. “It took everything,” she said, reflecting on the challenge faced during the match. Osaka praised her own resilience as she battled back against Muchova, admitting she was pleased to accomplish her goal of reaching this stage.
Next for Osaka is another formidable opponent, Belinda Bencic, who reached the third round by defeating Dutchwoman Suzan Lamens 6-1, 7-6(3). Osaka is eager to extend her run at this tournament, stating, “I just hope I can continue playing here because it is one of my favourite tournaments.” Her impressive fitness levels seem set to propel her forward as she continues to reclaim her place among the top players.
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka also made headlines during Day 4, overcoming Jessica Bouzas Maneiro with a score of 6-3, 7-5. Sabalenka, who has been on fire this tournament, saved 8 out of 11 break points throughout the competitive match. “I'm super happy to have finished this match in straight sets,” she remarked, emphasizing the effort required to triumph against such tough competition. The reigning champion's eye is on history, as she seeks to become the first woman to win three consecutive Australian Open titles since Martina Hingis.
Other noteworthy performances included seventh seed Jessica Pegula who broke her losing streak against Elise Mertens with a decisive 6-4, 6-2 victory, praising her strategic execution throughout the encounter. With 24 winners, Pegula continues to look strong as she advances to face Olga Danilovic. Meanwhile, 14th seed Mirra Andreeva narrowly escaped defeat against Moyuka Uchijima, winning 6-4, 3-6, 7-6(10-8), setting up her next round bout against 23rd seed Magdalena Frech.
Later on Wednesday night, Spain's Paula Badosa produced one of the quickest wins of the day, dismissing Australian wildcard Talia Gibson with a 6-1, 6-0 scoreline, progressing to face 17th seed Marta Kostyuk, who defeated Jule Neimeier 6-3, 6-0. The second round continues to highlight the depth and talent present at this year’s Australian Open, with thrilling matches still underway.
A highlight of the day was the competitive match between Jack Draper and Thanasi Kokkinakis, where both players demonstrated incredible tenacity throughout. Draper, finding himself battling against the crowd's support for his opponent, displayed unwavering focus to pull through, eventually winning the match after close volleys and exchanges. It was a monumental effort from both players, culminating with Draper securing his spot in the next round.
Overall, Day 4 of the Australian Open 2025 promises more excitement as both seasoned stars and up-and-coming talents continue to fight for glory on the hard courts of Melbourne Park.