Melbourne, Jan 14 (UNI) American players marked a strong start at the Australian Open 2025, with several standout performances on Day 3.
Seventeen players from the United States featured in singles action on Tuesday, and favourites such as Emma Navarro and Taylor Fritz showcased their prowess in an eventful session.
Eighth seed Emma Navarro prevailed in a gruelling three-hour, 20-minute battle against fellow American Peyton Stearns. Navarro secured a 6-7(5), 7-6(5), 7-5 victory, marking the longest women's singles match of the tournament so far.
The 23-year-old made her Rod Laver Arena debut memorable by staving off a strong challenge from Stearns, who served for the match at 5-4 in the final set. Despite her valiant effort, Stearns remains in search of her first win over a top-10 opponent.
Navarro, who represented the USA at the 2024 Olympics and Billie Jean King Cup, will next face China’s Wang Xiyu, who defeated Julia Grabher 6-1, 7-5 in her opening match.
In the men’s draw, fourth seed Taylor Fritz delivered a commanding performance, defeating compatriot Jenson Brooksby 6-2, 6-0, 6-3. Fritz showcased precision and power, hitting 34 winners and winning 83% of his first-serve points in a match lasting just under two hours.
Fritz will face qualifier Cristian Garin in the second round. The two have met three times previously, with Fritz leading their head-to-head 2-1.
Florida’s Amanda Anisimova cruised to a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Maria Lourdes Carle and will next take on Emma Raducanu in their first-ever meeting. Wildcard Iva Jovic also advanced, conceding just three games to Nuria Parrizas Dias.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien celebrated his maiden Grand Slam win after a four-hour, five-set battle against Camilo Ugo Carabelli.
Day 3 of the tournament highlighted the depth of talent among American players, setting the stage for further excitement in the rounds to come.
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