That’s it for the second’s day’s play. Let’s leave it with two departed Grand Slammers.
First, Naomi Osaka, after her defeat to Caroline Garcia.
“I thought it was a really good match. I felt like I did the best that I could possibly do. It was just really nice to be on Rod Laver again, hear the audience, how much they interacted with the match. That was fun. I don’t regret anything. I think I’ve learned a lot during this trip, both on the court and off the court. Also, I think I just played some really good people. It’s a little unfortunate.
“I wouldn’t say this comeback is how I thought because I’m delusional enough to think I could have won the tournament. I think my delusion is what allows me to win the tournaments. I think I just have to keep living day by day and training hard and playing a lot more matches, and hopefully my dreams will come true.”
And, of course, Andy Murray. This may be the last time.
Auger-Aliassime beats Thiem 6-3 7-5 6-7 5-7 6-3
Can Auger-Aliassime hold his nerve? It’s failed him before. He forces 15-15 with some powerplay. Then some huge forehands, that keep sending Thiem into the heavy rough for 30-15. Thiem sees his chance on a second serve but nets as he retreats. FAA to seal it? Two hours after he should have done? Yes, after a heavy delay for which he gets a warning, gets to the net. After four hours and 59 minutes, he’s through. Phew. It felt like that match would never end.
