Overview
- Stephens defeated Australian Olivia Gadecki 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 in the second round of qualifying after two hours and 12 minutes.
- The win sets up a final-round qualifier against Italy’s Lucia Bronzetti with a main-draw place on the line.
- Gadecki took the opening set and created chances but failed to convert five break points in the second set as momentum swung to Stephens.
- Stephens repeatedly consulted coach Kamau Murray during the match, including advice to breathe and step forward on points.
- The victory is Stephens’s second straight after a prolonged slump, and she entered Melbourne qualifying via a special ranking.