Coco Gauff Shines as Felix Auger-Aliassime Falters at Australian Open

Coco Gauff made a striking start at the Australian Open with a decisive first-round win, while Felix Auger-Aliassime exited unexpectedly due to cramp. Other notable performances included wins for Daniil Medvedev and Amanda Anisimova. The tournament also saw geopolitical shifts with Russian players representing new nations.

Coco Gauff began her quest for an Australian Open title with a commanding first-round victory on Monday, even as Felix Auger-Aliassime bowed out unexpectedly due to cramps.

Despite overcast skies, Melbourne Park continued to buzz with excitement as record-breaking crowds filled the arena. Local favorite Alex de Minaur advanced effortlessly, while Daniil Medvedev and American players Amanda Anisimova and Jessica Pegula sailed into the second round.

Gauff dominated her match against Kamilla Rakhimova, winning 6-2 6-3, and will face Serbian Olga Danilovic next. Meanwhile, geopolitical shifts in tennis emerged, with Kamilla Rakhimova switching her nationality from Russia to Uzbekistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)