The Australian Open 2025 lit up with dazzling drama on Day 3, leaving tennis fans in awe and reaffirming why Grand Slams are a breeding ground for the extraordinary.
The day unfolded with two captivating narratives: the rise of an 18-year-old Brazilian sensation, Joao Fonseca, and the enduring brilliance of 38-year-old Gael Monfils. From Fonseca’s fearless dismantling of Andrey Rublev to Monfils’ marathon victory, Melbourne Park proved yet again why it is the ultimate stage for tennis.
Fonseca’s victory over World No.9 Andrey Rublev in straight sets 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-6 (5) was nothing short of sensational. Playing in his first-ever Grand Slam match, the Brazilian qualifier showed no signs of nerves, hitting blistering winners off both wings and maintaining composure in pressure moments. The Margaret Court Arena crowd, dominated by his Brazilian supporters, erupted in joy with every fist pump and stunning rally.
Rublev, known for his relentless baseline aggression, was outplayed and outthought. Fonseca not only matched him in power but also outmanoeuvred him in crucial points, particularly in the tie-breaks. The turning point came in the first-set tie-break, where Fonseca raced to a 7-1 win, setting the tone for the match. His audacious purple patch in the second set, where he struck six winners in eight consecutive points, drew comparisons to tennis legends like Roger Federer. By the end of the match, Fonseca had not only announced himself to the tennis world but also etched his name as a future contender.
While Fonseca’s youthful exuberance grabbed headlines, Monfils provided a masterclass in grit and guile, defeating compatriot Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in a thrilling five-setter 7-6 (7), 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-7 (5), 6-4. In a match that lasted nearly four hours, Monfils showcased his signature flair and athleticism. Facing a much younger and physically imposing opponent, the veteran Frenchman turned back the clock, refusing to concede ground.
Monfils’ ability to save break points and his impeccable court coverage kept the packed crowd at Court 3 on the edge of their seats. The first-set tie-break was a nail-biter, with Monfils clawing his way back from 5-7 to take it 9-7. The second set saw the 38-year-old dictate play, but as the match progressed, Perricard began firing with renewed intensity.
Despite losing back-to-back tie-breaks, Monfils dug deep in the fifth set, breaking serve at 4-4 to finally seal the win. “I’m crazy happy,” he said after the match, beaming with the joy of defying expectations yet again.
The day wasn’t all about shocks, though, as fourth seed Jasmine Paolini delivered a composed performance in her opening-round match. The Italian cruised past Chinese qualifier Wei Sijia 6-0, 6-4 in just over an hour. The first set was a textbook display of precision from Paolini, who dictated play with her aggressive forehand and sharp net play. The second set, however, was a closer affair, with Wei saving multiple break points and testing Paolini’s nerves. Having reached the finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon in 2024, Paolini looks set for another deep run, and her opening-round dominance bodes well for the weeks ahead.
Elsewhere, the big names mostly held their ground. Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune survived five-set scares, with Medvedev defeating Thai wildcard Kasidit Samrej and Rune edging out Zhang Zhizhen in a battle of resilience. Taylor Fritz, meanwhile, breezed past Jenson Brooksby, dropping just five games in a clinical display of baseline dominance. Matteo Berrettini, who seems to thrive in the Grand Slam spotlight, downed Cameron Norrie in four sets to set up a blockbuster second-round clash with Rune.
On the women’s side, eighth seed Emma Navarro endured a marathon match, needing over three hours to defeat Peyton Stearns 6-7 (5), 7-6 (5), 7-5. Elena Rybakina delivered a dominant performance, dispatching 16-year-old Aussie prospect Emerson Jones in under an hour. British star Emma Raducanu overcame her serving woes — 15 double faults — to edge past Ekaterina Alexandrova in two tight tie-breaks, reminding fans of her grit and ability to battle through adversity.
Day 3 at Melbourne Park was a feast for tennis enthusiasts, offering a blend of youth, experience, and drama. From Fonseca’s meteoric rise to Monfils’ ageless magic, it was a day that celebrated the sport’s ability to surprise and inspire. With the second round promising more tantalising clashes, the Australian Open continues to deliver tennis at its captivating best.