Aussie Birrell saves match point, advances to US Open second round
Gritty Kim Birrell has overcome a match point and a restless night's sleep to break her first-round jinx with a maiden US Open victory in New York.
Aryna Sabalenka began her pursuit for three consecutive US Open titles with a resounding 6-2, 6-4 win over Colombia's Camila Osorio at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This victory marks the start of her journey to regain her dominance after a period of failing to reach finals since March. In the men's draw, Arthur Fils, the 10th seed, suffered a first-round upset, becoming the second major name to exit after Novak Djokovic's shocking loss on the opening day.
American Amanda Anisimova, who recently turned 25, also won her first-round match in a strong opening performance as she celebrated her birthday. The world number 10 claimed a 6-1, 6-3 win over Ashlyn Krueger on her birthday, setting up a second-round matchup with Lilli Tagger. Meanwhile, Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas stunned tournament newcomer Arthur Fils 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-1, 6-4, advancing to face South African Lloyd Harris.
Seven matches were postponed due to rain on Sunday night, with organizers benefitting from an extended first-round schedule in the 2025 tournament.
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