Inspired qualifier Dane Sweeny has continued Australia's flying start at Melbourne Park, claiming his first career win at a major and ending French veteran Gael Monfils' Australian Open campaign.
Lleyton Hewitt-lookalike Sweeny battled to secure a 6-7 (3-7) 7-5 6-4 7-5 victory over Monfils, who made his first Australian Open appearance in 2005.
The qualifier will bank a $225,000 payday from the win, which he described as a surreal and fortunate moment.
"Win or lose I just wanted to realise how lucky I was," Sweeny said on court, moments after the breakthrough win.
"Above all I'm just so grateful to play in front of you guys and compete on the big stage."
The crowd was electric from the first point, firmly backing both players, who entered the main draw unseeded.
Despite the rankings, the odds were firmly behind the Frenchman, who has never lost a grand slam match to a player ranked as low as the world No.182.
It was Monfils who took the first set from the Australian in a tie-break.
But the pair took it up a gear in the second set when Monfils took the first break of the match at the 146 minute mark.
It was cat and mouse with the rival trying to outdo each other, with the Australian showing his grit and even hitting a tweener.
The athleticism both players was on full display, with Sweeny throwing his body around the court and even taking a tumble, before Monfils was presented a set point.
But the 24-year-old broke serve to even the score, before he eventually claimed the second set.
Sweeny continued to show off his defensive skills in the third set, as the match moved to the three hour mark.
Kia Arena was jam-packed with long lines trying to get into the arena to get a glimpse of the match.
The qualifier sealed the third set with an overhead smash, the crowd erupting.
Monfils was quick to break Sweeny in the fourth set, even sharing a smile after the Australian ran down several seemingly unreturnable balls.
But fatigue appeared to keep creeping in for Monfils, who was digging deep, taking a 4-1 lead.
The diminutive Sydneysider, who only weighs 63kg and stands 170cm, clawed his way back in the fourth set, securing two breaks of serve.
Sweeny was presented with two match points, but only needed one to end the Frenchman's final match at Melbourne Park.
It was all class from the veteran, who walked over to congratulate Sweeny, who collapsed after hitting a forehand winner down the line.
It was the 69th grand slam appearance for Monfils, who announced 2026 would be his final season on tour.
Tennis Australia boss Craig Tiley made a special presentation to Monfils in front of the cheering crowd.
The former quarterfinalist thanked the fans for staying with him on the journey.
Sweeny has booked a second round date with the American world No. 8 Ben Shelton.
