Sabalenka and Alcaraz Power Through to Melbourne Park Quarterfinals as Medvedev Falters

Two of tennis’s brightest stars — Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz — stamped their authority at the Australian Open on Sunday, each booking their place in the quarterfinals with composed, commanding performances. Meanwhile, a surprising early exit from Daniil Medvedev opened up the men’s draw and emerged as one of the day’s biggest shocks.

With cooler temperatures returning to Melbourne Park after days of extreme heat disrupted play, spectators were treated to drama across both the women’s and men’s singles as the Grand Slam entered the pivotal second week.

Sabalenka’s Steady March Continues

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka continued her remarkable run in Melbourne with a fourth-round victory over 19-year-old Canadian Victoria Mboko. The top seed, renowned for her ferocious serve and aggressive baseline game, set the tone early with a dominant 6-1 first set, leaving little doubt about her class and intentions.

However, Mboko — in only her debut Australian Open main draw — refused to roll over. She battled fiercely in the second set, turning the momentum and even saving multiple match points. Sabalenka’s lead slipped, and the match was pushed to a tiebreak that showcased both players’ resilience. But the Belarussian’s experience shone through as she took the breaker comfortably, sealing her place in the last eight.

Sabalenka’s progression into the quarterfinals marks yet another milestone in her Australian Open journey: it’s her 13th consecutive Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance, an extraordinary streak that underlines her consistency at the majors. The world’s top-ranked woman will face rising 18-year-old Iva Jovic next, a young player who has been in scintillating form and is poised to test Sabalenka’s mettle.

Despite moments of tension, Sabalenka’s composure under pressure — particularly in tiebreak situations — remains a defining feature of her game. Her ability to elevate her play when it matters most has been on full display in Melbourne, where she looks increasingly comfortable as the tournament moves into the business end.

Alcaraz Maintains Relentless Momentum

On the men’s side, Carlos Alcaraz continued his charge toward a potential first Australian Open title, navigating another stern challenge with poise and precision. The Spanish world No. 1 faced American Tommy Paul in a fourth-round clash that promised to test his patience and physicality under the lights at Rod Laver Arena.

Alcaraz’s high-octane style, armed with blistering groundstrokes and tactical variety, was on full display. He dismantled Paul in straight sets, using aggressive court positioning and intelligent shot selection to dictate rallies and limit his opponent’s opportunities.

The Spaniard’s win — his third consecutive Australian Open quarterfinal — keeps him firmly in the hunt for another Grand Slam crown. In his next match, Alcaraz is scheduled to face Australia’s own Alex de Minaur, who thrilled the local crowd by advancing with a commanding performance of his own on Sunday.

Alcaraz’s unwavering focus and physical conditioning have been recurring themes of his tournament so far, and he enters the quarterfinals as one of the favorites. Should he maintain this level, a deep run in Melbourne remains well within reach.

Medvedev’s Unexpected Exit Shakes up Men’s Draw

Perhaps the biggest storyline of the day came off court for Daniil Medvedev, whose campaign ended in stunning fashion at the hands of American Learner Tien. The defending major contender had entered the round of 16 with high expectations, given his experience and pedigree at the sport’s biggest events. But on Sunday, Tien produced one of the most memorable upsets of the tournament, dispatching Medvedev in straight sets to reach his first Grand Slam quarterfinal.

Medvedev has long been known for his tactical nous and flat, penetrating groundstrokes, but he was unable to find his rhythm in a match where Tien’s fearless aggression and precise ball striking turned the tide in his favor early and often. The 20-year-old American’s performance was clinical, limiting unforced errors and seizing control of key points.

Tien’s breakthrough provides a fresh narrative in the men’s draw — one where youth and fearlessness have disrupted the status quo. His victory sends a message that the next generation isn’t just ready to compete at the highest level, but to win. For Medvedev, the loss marks a premature end to what many had expected to be a deep run in Melbourne — a reminder of the fine margins that define Grand Slam tennis.

Other Notable Results and Quarterfinal Setups

Sunday’s action wasn’t limited to the big names. Coco Gauff continued her own ascent, edging past Karolina Muchova in a tight three-set encounter to secure her third straight Australian Open quarterfinal. She now prepares for a clash with Ukrainian veteran Elina Svitolina, who also advanced with an impressive win.

In the men’s draw, Alexander Zverev kept his title hopes alive by defeating Francisco Cerundolo, booking himself a last-eight showdown with Tien. Additionally, Novak Djokovic progressed via walkover after his opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew due to injury, adding another heavyweight name to the quarterfinal mix.

These matchups set the stage for a riveting second week in Melbourne — one where elite experience meets emerging ambition, and where every swing could be the difference between glory and heartbreak.

Looking Ahead

As the Australian Open transitions deeper into its second week, narratives are emerging that promise tension, intrigue and unforgettable tennis. Sabalenka’s quest for another major title, Alcaraz’s bid to add a maiden hard-court Grand Slam, and the rise of new challengers like Learner Tien are all threads weaving into what could be one of the most compelling finishes in recent memory.

Fans around the globe will be watching closely as Melbourne Park’s lights burn bright into the heart of the tournament, with every match carrying the weight of expectation and the potential for drama.