January 22, (THEWILL) – Jiri Lehecka caused a major upset at the Australian Open on Sunday, by defeating 21-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime, 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(2), 7-6(3) in a gruelling three-hour match.
Auger-Aliassime secured the first break in the opening set, but Lehecka fought back in the second set, breaking Auger-Aliassime’s serve when he was already leading 4-3. Lehecka sealed the set and levelled the match in the next game with some impressive volleys at the net. The third set went to a tie-break, which Lehecka won, thanks to a series of errors from Auger-Aliassime.
The fourth set was similarly tense, with both players locked on serve. Auger-Aliassime attempted to change his approach by coming to the net more often, but the unforced errors continued to mount. The outcome of the match would be decided by a fourth-set tie-break, and it was Lehecka’s calmness that ultimately paid off.
Auger-Aliassime hit a forehand into the tramlines, giving Lehecka three match points. Lehecka finished off the match with a backhand passing shot at the net, securing the biggest win of his career.
It is a bitter disappointment for Auger-Aliassime, who reached the quarter-finals of the tournament last year but has yet to progress further in a Grand Slam. Lehecka, ranked world number 71, will now face either Stefanos Tsitsipas or Jannik Sinner, in the quarter-finals.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
