Alexei Popyrin had a difficult 2022. The Australian began the year ranked No. 61 and concluded it ranked No. 120, losing in the opening round of every grand slam except the US Open when he advanced to the second round. His 2023 is already greatly improved, as on Thursday Popyrin stunned the eighth seed at the Australian Open by overcoming Taylor Fritz in five thrilling sets.
On a day of upsets, including Casper Ruud’s shocking elimination at the hands of Jenson Brooksby, the 23-year-old ensured the same fate for Fritz, dropping the first set before mounting a ferocious comeback to defeat the ninth-ranked American 6-7 (4), 7-6 (2), 6-4, 6-7 (6), 6-2.
When it was finished, after enduring a fifth set after wasting a match point in the fourth, the Sydneysider cried and punched the air in an erupting John Cain Arena to announce himself to the world.
Red-eyed Popyrin exclaimed, “You guys were just wonderful, oh my goodness, this is insane!” “I could not have completed the task without your assistance. This victory is incredibly important to me. Last year was the most difficult of my life; I did not win many matches. This year I’ve already won as many matches as I did all of last year, and it’s only January.”
Popyrin entered the main event at Melbourne Park as a wildcard with little anticipation or acclaim, but he proceeded to dismantle last year’s Wimbledon quarterfinalist and put on a serving clinic belying his No. 113 rating by delivering 19 aces and 74 winners.
Taylor Fritz stunned by Alexei Popyrin
After defeating Tseng Chun Hsin in the first round, this is his second consecutive victory. He will now face another American, world No. 92 Ben Shelton.
With Rafael Nadal, the incumbent champion, and Ruud already eliminated, this result helps throw the men’s draw wide open.
Still crying, Popyrin explained, “During preseason, I put my head down and worked as diligently as I could.” “I never wanted to feel the way I did last year again. I adore this sensation, and I want more of it. I want you to feel this way more often. Man, I adore you all so much, many thanks. This is a dream, and I do not wish to awaken.”
Kimberly Birrell’s hopes were dashed as she fell to Linda Fruhvirtova of the Czech Republic in the second round, 6-3, 6-2.
Sam Stosur played her final women’s doubles match when she and French partner Alizé Cornet lost to Chan Hao-Ching and Yang Zhaoxuan in the first round, 6-3, 6-4.
In the coming days, the 2011 US Open champion will begin her final mixed doubles campaign with Matthew Ebden.
“It was a very difficult decision,” stated Stosur. “I enjoy playing, competing, and performing in front of you guys. A crowd like this makes it feel odd that you no longer want to do it. But after a certain time, other tasks become somewhat more challenging.
“I’ve enjoyed traveling, playing, and doing all I’ve been able to accomplish on my run. I desired to complete my work in my hometown, Melbourne. This was the year. It’s bittersweet, but I appreciate everyone’s attendance. It has been truly remarkable.”
