Australian Open Report: 19-year-old Rising Star Causes Upset, Grand Slam Champion Eliminated, Wang Xinyu’s Next Opponent Confirmed

On January 23rd Beijing time, the second round of the Australian Open women's singles fully commenced, with the fifth day of matches concluding yesterday. The results were full of surprises: 25th seed Badosa was stunned 0-2 by Seleznyova; Chinese star Wang Xinyu upset the Grand Slam champion Ostapenko 2-1; and 19-year-old phenom Batukova knocked out 10th seed Bencic 2-1. Consequently, Seleznyova, Wang Xinyu, and Batukova advanced to the round of 32!

Badosa faced Seleznyova. Despite Seleznyova’s world ranking being only 101, Badosa played terribly, overwhelmed on both offense and defense, mishandling crucial points. She quickly lost the match with two 4-6 sets, suffering a straight-sets defeat 0-2. As a semifinalist last season, Badosa’s early exit in the second round was a huge shock!

Wang Xinyu’s opponent was former French Open champion Ostapenko. The match began with fierce exchanges, with Ostapenko eventually taking the lead by winning key points to claim the first set 6-4. In the second set, Ostapenko pushed forward and even led 4-2, putting Wang in a difficult position. However, Wang staged a remarkable comeback with a rapid four-game streak to win the set 6-4 and level the match. In the deciding set, both players battled strategically and energetically across the court. Despite Ostapenko’s lob shots and constant chatter, Wang quickly pulled ahead and sealed the set 6-4, completing a 2-1 comeback victory. This win marked Wang’s first time reaching the Australian Open round of 32, a major breakthrough. After advancing to the third round, Wang became the sole remaining Chinese contender. Her next opponent is confirmed to be 13th seed Noskova, presenting a significant challenge!

The 19-year-old rising star Batukova faced 10th seed Bencic and delivered a strong performance. She quickly found her rhythm in the first set, building a solid lead and winning 6-3. However, Batukova collapsed in the second set, being swept 0-6 by her opponent. Undeterred, she fought back fiercely in the final set, staying level at 4-4 before seizing the crucial points to win 6-4. With a 2-1 victory, Batukova eliminated her opponent and, in her first Grand Slam main draw appearance, advanced to the round of 32—a tremendous achievement!

Written by Sports Fiction