Overview
- Three Canadians were struck by severe cramps within hours, with Félix Auger‑Aliassime retiring to Nuno Borges and becoming the first top‑10 men’s seed out, Marina Stakusic wheeled off against Priscilla Hon, and Liam Draxl losing after seizing up.
- Temperatures around 30°C tested competitors, with reports of a ballkid’s collapse and players citing heat and nerves as likely contributors to the cramping incidents.
- Germany suffered a rough day as Daniel Altmaier fell 0:6, 0:6, 6:7 (3:7) to Marin Čilić, while Ella Seidel and Tatjana Maria also exited in the first round.
- Stan Wawrinka, competing on a farewell wildcard, beat Laslo Djere 5:7, 6:3, 6:4, 7:6 (7:4) and thanked fans for their support in an emotional on‑court moment.
- Novak Djokovic began with a straight‑sets win over Pedro Martinez, marking his 100th Australian Open match victory and his 81st Grand Slam main‑draw appearance.