“Shapovalov Exits Australian Open, Djokovic and Wawrinka Shine”

Canada’s Denis Shapovalov exited the Australian Open’s second round in a quick defeat in Melbourne on Thursday. The player from Richmond Hill, Ontario, was defeated by Croatia’s Marin Cilic in straight sets, with a final score of 6-4, 6-3, 6-2. Shapovalov, seeded No. 21, was the last Canadian male player left in the singles competition. Meanwhile, at the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka made notable achievements. Djokovic secured his 399th Grand Slam victory by defeating Francesco Maestrelli 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, edging closer to becoming the first player to reach 400 wins. Wawrinka, at 40 years and 310 days, became the first over-40 male player to reach the third round of a major since 1978, setting a remarkable milestone. In a thrilling match, Wawrinka defeated Arthur Gea in a 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (3) comeback victory. Additionally, Madison Keys, the defending champion, showcased resilience by coming back from a double break in the second set to defeat Ashlyn Krueger 6-1, 7-5. The tournament also witnessed a record-breaking crowd attendance, with 103,720 spectators present during the day and night sessions. A moment of silence was observed before the night session to honor the 15 individuals who lost their lives in the recent Bondi Beach terror attack, underscoring the theme “Light Will Win.”