The Australian Open witnessed an extraordinary showdown on its second day as Felix Auger-Aliassime and Dominic Thiem engaged in a marathon battle that spilled over into the third day of the tournament. On Margaret Court Arena, the Canadian and Austrian former Top 10 players played the longest match of the fortnight, with Auger-Aliassime ultimately prevailing over Thiem 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 5-7, 6-3 in a match that lasted just a minute shy of five hours.
Auger-Aliassime took control by winning the first two sets, but Thiem fought back, securing the last five points of the third-set tiebreak to keep his hopes alive. The match extended to a fifth set, with the Austrian serving out the fourth on his second attempt at 12:54 a.m. local time.
Reflecting on the victory, Auger-Aliassime expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging the challenging nature of the match. “A lot of relief. It’s crazy, these matches, you go through really all the emotions,” he said. Despite the frustration in the third set, he emphasized the importance of mental toughness and avoiding regrets, ultimately securing the win in a testament to his resilience.
The match not only showcased high-level tennis but also demonstrated the mental fortitude of both players. Auger-Aliassime’s triumph in this grueling encounter marks a significant moment in his career, as he navigated the challenges and emerged victorious in the longest match he has played to date. The Australian Open continues to deliver intense and memorable moments as players strive for success on the grand stage.
