MELBOURNE – Amanda Anisimova powered into the Australian Open fourth round with a commanding 6-1, 6-4 victory over fellow American Peyton Stearns on Margaret Court Arena. The 22-year-old, who reached this stage last year too, wrapped up the match in 1 hour and 11 minutes, showcasing ruthless aggression from the outset.
Anisimova broke Stearns twice early in the first set after saving a break point, racing to a 5-1 lead and sealing it effortlessly. The second set saw her dominate at 5-2, but Stearns fought back, saving a match point and breaking to make it 5-4. Unfazed, Anisimova clinched it on her third match point with a stunning forehand winner. Despite more unforced errors, her attacking flair proved decisive.
Next up for Anisimova is either Linda Noskova or Wang Xinyu, as she eyes a deeper run in Melbourne. In a stark contrast, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti endured a five-set marathon on John Cain Arena, outlasting Tomas Machac 2-6, 6-4, 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 in 4 hours and 27 minutes.
After dropping the opener, Musetti mounted a comeback, dominating the third set. Machac leveled in the fourth, but Musetti’s superior fitness and booming forehands shone in the decider. His powerful serves sealed a hard-fought triumph, propelling him into the last 16 for the first time at this Grand Slam.
These victories highlight the grit and talent defining day seven at the Australian Open, with both players now gearing up for pivotal clashes. Anisimova’s poise under pressure and Musetti’s endurance signal potential upsets ahead in the draw.