Melbourne Park has witnessed Alex de Minaur’s disappointment in the previous two years, as he failed to surpass the fourth round. However, the Australian tennis player believes that this time, he is in the best possible position to conquer world No. 5 Andrey Rublev and break the barrier that has held him back. Acknowledging his past shortcomings, de Minaur is determined to deliver the performance he desires and advance to the quarterfinals, surpassing his personal best at the Australian Open.
In the past 12 months, de Minaur has made significant strides, attaining the No. 10 spot in the world rankings. This year, competing at his home Slam, he enjoys a notable advantage—ample rest. The Australian only played two sets and two games in his first-round match against Milos Raonic, who retired due to injury. In subsequent matches against Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli, both of which he won in straight sets, de Minaur showcased his prowess. As a result, he enters the clash against Rublev feeling physically refreshed and confident in his abilities.
Acknowledging the fortuitous circumstances that have unfolded in his journey, de Minaur acknowledges his fortunate position. Milos Raonic’s early retirement ensured a concise match, not draining his energy extensively. This stroke of luck was followed by two victories, which were also relatively short in duration. Understanding the significance of these early rounds, de Minaur acknowledges the conventional wisdom of getting through the initial stages in any way possible. Now embarking on the second week of the Grand Slam, de Minaur recognizes that the competition will intensify, with stronger opponents awaiting him.
Andrey Rublev, ranked fifth in the world, poses a formidable challenge for de Minaur. However, in their previous encounters on the tour, de Minaur has emerged victorious in three out of five matches, including a win in Rotterdam. Analyzing Rublev’s strengths, de Minaur recognizes the immense firepower possessed by his opponent and the lethal forehand that he wields. To counter Rublev’s dominance, de Minaur plans to stifle his forehand and prevent him from dictating the game from the middle of the court. Armed with knowledge of his opponent’s game, de Minaur aims to implement a strategic game plan to neutralize Rublev’s strengths and secure victory.
Alex de Minaur enters the fourth round of the Australian Open with a renewed sense of determination and optimism. Fuelled by his improved ranking, physical freshness, and previous success against Rublev, de Minaur believes that this is his moment to shatter the fourth-round barrier. With his eyes set on reaching the quarterfinals, he aims to unleash his best tennis and seize the opportunity at hand. As de Minaur’s journey unfolds, tennis fans eagerly await the outcome, hoping to witness his breakthrough moment on Melbourne Park’s hallowed courts.
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