Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina began the first grand slam tournament of the year with two of the most difficult first-round opponents possible, yet by stepping up to the challenge both matches only served to reinforce their credentials as two of the favourites.
While Swiatek began her brutal path towards a potential Australian Open title by defeating Sofia Kenin, the 2020 champion, 7-6 (2), 6-2, Rybakina edged out Karolina Pliskova 7-6 (6), 6-4 to reach the second round.
