Overview
- Alex de Minaur lost 6-3, 6-3 to Casper Ruud in Sydney, his first career defeat to the world No.12.
- De Minaur committed eight double faults and said night conditions disrupted his serving rhythm.
- Australia still took the tie 2-1 over Norway after Storm Hunter, a late replacement for the ill Maya Joint, won her singles and the mixed doubles with John-Patrick Smith.
- De Minaur said he remains in a good mindset and views the performance as an early-season blip he can correct.
- Australia next faces Czechia on Tuesday, with de Minaur expected to meet world No.19 Jakub Mensik as the team assesses Joint’s recovery.