Djokovic v Prizmic, Seidel v Sabalenka and extra: Australian Open 2024 day one – live | Australian Open 2024

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.

Djokovic hits the web together with his forehand, however Prizmic does the identical together with his double-handed backhand. Prizmic is sweaty, Djokovic field contemporary. The balls are settling into sogginess once more, new ones due in three video games time. Djokovic misses a forehand on recreation level, appears to be like irritated, however takes the sport.

A stern, elegant wanting member of Djokovic’s entourage, conveys a message. Whatever it was, it really works, Djokovic breaks again instantly, helped by a few unforced errors. Djokovic blows his nostril.

Prizmic out of the blue alight! A leaping overhead smash into the nook to go 15-0 up on the Djokovic serve, completed by a cross court docket scorcher to take the sport. Wow! He raises his finger to acknowledge the gang and clenches his fist in youthful headiness.

Prizmic begins by getting the higher of a protracted rally after a wild forehand from Djokovic. Storms the sport with some highly effective whipping photographs, holding to like. This boy can play.

Djokovic, hewn of granite, holds his serve to fifteen. Prizmic, with nascent moustache, questions the smiling umpire about one thing, however all is resolved.

Important maintain within the first recreation of the second set for Prizmic, strapped left thigh matching strapped proper wrist. Enthusiastic applause from his crew and the gang as he recovers from a double fault to win with a zipping forehand.

The new ball does its job instantly as Prizmic returns the primary serve lengthy. Djokovic has two set factors, picks up the primary and eats it with an ace. First set finished and dusted in lower than 45 minutes, not all one method although.

Djokovic breaks Prizmic to like, two tight factors adopted a few pressure-honed errors by Prizmic. New balls now, and the speak across the coaches in Melbourne is that this yr’s balls get very sluggish and soggy halfway by means of their life on court docket (usually 9 video games, however seven for the primary lot due to the warm-up). Then the brand new ones ping like bullets.

The Djokovic machine cranks up a notch. Service recreation to like.

Do electronic mail me with any thought or observations: tanya.aldred.freelance@theguardian.com

Not really easy! The crowd buzz because the younger pretender leads Djokovic a merry dance by means of this recreation, sending him this fashion and that. Service held, Prizmic requires the physio, although not for his closely strapped proper wrist. He lies down on a towel to have his higher thighs massaged. Feels barely intrusive to have overhead cameras watching this therapeutic massage however possibly that’s simply me.

Glorious! After a protracted rally at 15-0, Prizmic kisses a cross-court drop shot to win the purpose. But Djokovic, whose blue trainers are embroidered with 24 to characterize his 24 main titles – 25 would take him previous Margaret Court – powers onwards.

Prizmic eats a half-hearted Djokovic smash to go 15-0 up and then hits an excellent backhand straight down the road to outfox his opponent. A fragile flutter of a drop store is adopted up by a cross-court profitable waft. At 40-0 up a double fault provides Djokovic a method again, however Prizmic holds on to take the sport . Very properly finished!

Prizmic, dressed very a lot like a younger Ronaldo, shifts from foot to foot ready to obtain the Djokovic serve, however it’s a reasonably straightforward win to fifteen for the defending champion.

The first match of the primary evening session of the Australian Open. From the gang, Djokovic’s coach Ivanisevic watches intently. Djokovic ought to eat 18-year-old Prizmic alive – well-known final phrases – however Prizmic, I’m reliably informed, will probably be a star. He got here by means of the qualifying occasion dropping simply one set. Prizmic loses the primary two factors, however holds onto two break factors earlier than hitting into the web and Djokovic breaks. But it wasn’t a breeze.

The world’s biggest male tennis participant has the ball in his hand as he and Prizmic heat up on the Rod Laver area. Djokovic is in all royal blue, Prizmic in brief shorts, white T-shirt and backwards baseball cap.

A nasty day for the British quantity two Jodie Burrage, who danced by means of the primary set in opposition to Tamara Korpatsch, however then utterly misplaced her mojo, defeated 2-6 6-3 6-0.

“A bit of a tough one today. Still pretty raw, to be honest, so still a lot of emotions there. It was just a tough end to a match really.

“I found it tough to serve in that wind and just my game in general. I tried to adjust as much as possible, but yeah, when you hit a bigger ball I guess and don’t grind it out, when it gets windy, it’s not as easy to play, but that’s just what I need to learn to do. I need to learn to have a bit of a plan B because there was no plan B there today.”

In the final ten minutes, Number 5 seed Andrey Rubelev has simply thrown himself on the bottom and roared in triumph, shaking his mane of pink hair, after struggling by means of a five-set thriller in opposition to Thiago Seyboth Wild: 7-5, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6(6) .

The first ever Sunday begin of a 15-day event has labored like a dream for the organisers of the Australian Open:

and on the courts, we have now already had drama…

Good morning! It’s could also be black outdoors right here within the UK however throughout the oceans, summer time is beaming. The first day of the primary Grand Slam of the yr is underway in Melbourne, all squeaky trainers, blue courts and Novak Djokovic hungrily licking his lips for his eleventh Australian Open title.

His outdated foe Rafa Nadal isn’t right here, withdrawing with a muscle tear in his hip, however Carlos Alcaraz, Danniil Medvedev and Jannik Sinner prowl, desperately-looking for indicators of ageing within the ageless one. In the ladies’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka defends her title after profitable her first profession main right here final yr. No. 1 seed Iga Swiatek is the favorite for the crown whereas there’s numerous curiosity in comeback queens Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber and Britain’s personal Emma Raducanu.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-2 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Prizmic hasn’t given up, and out of the blue has two break factors on the Djokovic serve, sending him this fashion and that in a double-figure rally till Djokovic misses. Wins the sport, and breaks, with a fortunate web twine. He places his hand up in apology, however begins to reel the set again…

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Hymns of exaltation for Prizmic from the commentators, at the same time as he slips away on this remaining set. A double fault takes him to 30-30, a pin-point cross-court return within the nook provides Djokovic a break level. But Prizmic isn’t finished but and pulls out an ace for a deuce, and a forehand winner means he holds his serve.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic misses a forehand volley, however in any other case motors to a win to fifteen, sealing issues with a booming serve. A eighth recreation in a row for Djokovic.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 3-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic beginning to motor, as Prizmic by some means sprints to choose up a drop shot however Djokovic flays previous him. Prizmic pulls again with a backhand winner, however nets at 15-40, and once more, and out of the blue this set and match is working away from him.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 2-0 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic sniffs regally, as Prizmic slips to 30-0 down. 40-0 with a Djokovic passing shot, and, with an imperceptible drop of the shoulders, Prizmic simply begins to look barely overwhelmed. Djokovic clinches the sport to go 2-0 up within the fourth.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 1-0 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) A brief breather as Prizmic takes a rest room break however we’re again. Djokovic now mismatched in pale blue shirt and royal blue shorts; Prizmic in a brisker model of the unique. A whipping forehand takes Prizmic to 40-30, and earns applause from Djokovic. But Djokovic comes again to deuce and then Prizmic nets a tough volley to present Djokovic break level, which he pockets after one other epic rally and unreal returns from Prizmic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) We see, for the primary time within the very long time, a Djokovic smile. But he loses the primary level of his function he nets a backhand. Then hits huge with a forehand. But he needs this and is relentless and clinches the set when Prizmic miscues. Djokovic shakes and shakes his fist after clinching a 71-minute third set.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 5-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At 30-0 up, Prizmic floats his forehand into the web, then misses his first serve. He is, by the way, sporting a twenty first century model of Dunlop inexperienced flash. Suddenly Djokovic is 40-30 up and has a break level. After a high-class rally, he wins it after Prizmic hits the web.

Hello David Hardisty! “This just shows how amazing winning 24 Grand Slams is because that is turning up rain or shine, in better or worse physical shape, 24 x 7 = 168 times and beating the person on the other side of the net.” So true!

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 4-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Djokovic is complaining concerning the change within the guidelines on the Australian Open which lets spectators transfer round after every recreation. He instantly goes 30-0 down on his serve, Ivanisevic chews his nails and Marco Panichi, Djokovic’s health coach, releases a European shrug. Two extra break factors for Prizmic, who tucks his chain in his t-shirt and quietly exhorts himself. Djokovic pulls again with a overhead smash, then an ace. Holds the set, however powerful work.

Djokovic* 6-2, 6-7 (5), 3-3 Prizmic (*signifies subsequent server) At the beginning of this recreation, 36 unforced errors for a rattled Djokovic, 14 already on this set. Prizmic goes 40-15 down on his serve however saves one break level with an unbelievable down the road shot. And a sensational whippy forehand to deliver up deuce. Djokovic isn’t letting this go although and Prizmic hits huge and that’s the break for Djokovic.

Djokovic 6-2, 6-7 (5), 2-3 Prizmic* (*signifies subsequent server) Come on! Djokovic huffing and puffing. I’m certain that is irrelevant, it should be irrelevant, however the final time he misplaced within the first spherical of a significant was 2006. Three deuces on the Djokovic serve… then a fourth after Djokovic hits simply huge. A fifth with a Prizmic laser forehand. A sixth after Djokovic can’t comply with up an ace and hits lengthy. Then Djokovic can’t cope with a pin-point Prizmic return who has a second break level… however he misses and we return for a seventh deuce. Djokovic hits lengthy and then nets! Prizmic has the break! He conducts the delighted crowd as a livid Djokovic sits down and throws his towel on the ground.

Back to the Rod Laver area…. the place I simply hear the commentator say that Prizmic has received 21 of the 33 rallies over 9. We’re within the third set, the place it’s one break every, Prizmic levelling after going 2-0 down.

A fast round-up from elsewhere:

Eighth seed Maria Sakkari, who misplaced within the first spherical of the final three grand slams, beat Japan’s Nao Hibino in simply over an hour, 6-4, 6-1.

Fourth seed Jannick Sinner, one of the chasing pack, beat Botic van de Zandschulp in straight units 6-4 7-5 6-3.

Matteo Berrettini’s event is over already, having to withdraw from his first-round match due to a foot damage. Seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas will as an alternative play Belgian Zizou Bergs.

And smiling fifth seed Andrey Rublev survived each a barracking crowd and a rousing comeback from Thiago Seyboth Wild to clinch a fifth set tie-break and the match: 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Tumaini Carayol

Former teenage prodigy Amanda Anisimova, who reached the semi-finals of the 2019 French Open aged 17, took a break from tennis in April final yr so as to handle her ailing psychological well being. Nine months later, Anisimova returned to grand slam competitors with a win, defeating thirteenth seed Liudmila Samsonova 6-3 6-4. Here she is after her massive win:

Q. Do you have got a brand new outlook in your tennis after having a break final yr?

AMANDA ANISIMOVA: “In some ways I do. But the most important thing is that I feel a lot more refreshed. I’m enjoying practicing. I’m enjoying every second that I’m out there. Even when I was down today, I was still just enjoying the challenge. Yeah, I’m just happy with how I feel coming back. I feel like I was very burned out while I was playing, and that really wasn’t a nice feeling. Being able to just reset is really nice.”

Briefly leaving this recreation, with Djokovic 40- 30 up on serve within the first recreation of the third set.

WOW! Prizmic nets the primary serve of his remaining set level however makes the second and, after an epic, tension-building, rally Djokovic misses! And an 18 yr outdated attracts stage with the world No. 1!

Djokovic has received his final 16 first-round matches at Australian Open and dropped solely one set within the course of (v Jan Lennard Struff, 2020). He has simply dropped his second.

Prizmic takes the primary level however can’t do something with Djokovic’s massive second serve. Prizmi goes two-one up profitable a fizzing rally, Djokovic attracts stage. Prizmic goes 3-2 up however then 4-2 after a fortunate web twine, and 5-2 after Djokovic nets his backhand. 6-2 as Djokovic goes lengthy…. Djokovic saves the primary of 4 set factors, and a second…and a 3rd….

Ace, a love maintain, and we have now a tie-break!

The second set will go to at the least a tie-break as Prizmic holds to like!

“Prizmic is going for the lines, playing carefree tennis” says Pat Cash. Carefree is the phrase. Carefree cock of the stroll, 18-year outdated exuberance. But he can’t take the set. Djokovic needs this recreation, and although he hits lengthy on the finish of a protracted rally at 40-15, Prizmic then nets.

Night falling in Melbourne as Djokovic hits huge on the backhand. Then an ace takes Prizmic to 40-0, earlier than he makes and error and hits lengthy. But Djokovic returns lengthy and that’s the sport, if he can simply break Djokovic within the subsequent, Prizmic has taken a set off the World Number one.

The Djokovic machine holds to like to suitably dampen expectation.

Tenacious, free, frisky, tennis from Prizmic who appears to have countless bounce in his trainers. Wins a protracted cross court docket rally as Djokovic hits lengthy, exhibiting indicators of irritation. Snatches issues with an ace. Fabulous maintain.