The lack of a fourth-round match at the Australian Open continued on Monday, when 10 sets were played in four matchups. Novak Djokovic earned a walkover, while Jannik Sinner, Lorenzo Musetti, and Ben Shelton won in style.
Usoni bounced back from a tough match against Eliot Spizzirri on Saturday beating fellow Italian Luciano Darderi 6-1, 6-3, 7-6(2). In friendly weather conditions, the two-time defending champion advanced in two hours and nine minutes.
Musetti was taking care of Taylor Fritz, who entered the season with knee tendinitis and is dealing with a stomach problem — possibly along with other injury issues. The Italian took advantage of his opportunity, advancing to the quarterfinals with a 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 victory.
After Jakub Mensik withdrew against Djokovic, Shelton’s match with Casper Ruud was moved from John Cain Arena to a night match at Rod Laver Arena. Perhaps no one loves the big stage more than Shelton, and he played like it. The seventh-ranked American recovered from a slow start to cruise 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4.
In total, 22 sets are played throughout the fourth round of men’s singles. Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Alex de Minair, and Learner Tien all won in a row on Sunday.
Five highlights from day 9:
Australian Open Day 9 scores
Novak Djokovic d. Jakub Mensik (walkover)
Jannik Sinner d. Luciano Darderi 6-1, 6-3, 7-6(2)
Lorenzo Musetti d. Taylor Fritz 6-2, 7-5, 6-4
Ben Shelton d. Casper Ruud 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4
