Tomáš Macháč extended his impressive winning streak at the Australian Open with a confident four-set victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas, continuing one of the most consistent runs of his career.
The Czech player, currently ranked No. 24 in the world, secured his seventh consecutive win, underlining a surge in form that has carried seamlessly from the Australian warm-up events into Melbourne.
Momentum built before Melbourne
Macháč’s rise did not begin at the Australian Open. He arrived in Melbourne full of confidence after a strong showing during the Australian summer, highlighted by his victory over Hugo Humbert in Adelaide.
That momentum translated immediately into Grand Slam success, as Macháč stunned Grigor Dimitrov with a straight-sets win in the opening round before backing it up with another composed performance against Tsitsipas.
Composure against a big name
Facing a former world No. 3, Macháč showed no hesitation. He took the opening set with controlled aggression, using depth and pace to neutralize Tsitsipas’ forehand-heavy patterns.
Although Tsitsipas responded by claiming the second set, Macháč remained disciplined, refusing to allow the match to slip away.
Fine margins decide the closing sets
The third and fourth sets were decided by the finest of margins. Both sets reached 6–6, forcing tie-breaks where Macháč proved sharper under pressure. His ability to execute in decisive moments allowed him to close out both tie-breaks and seal the match in four sets.
Those key points highlighted the difference between momentum-driven confidence and a player still searching for stability.
A rising trajectory, a worrying trend
Macháč’s current level suggests that surpassing his previous career-high ranking of No. 20 could come quickly — possibly during this Australian Open if his run continues.
For Tsitsipas, the loss adds to a difficult period. Now ranked No. 35, the Greek star continues to struggle with consistency and physical concerns. His admission last season that his “biggest victory would be simply finishing matches without pain” remains a worrying signal for a player once considered a perennial Grand Slam contender.
Two careers moving in opposite directions
This match offered a clear snapshot of two contrasting trajectories: a rising Czech player capitalizing on confidence and clarity, and a former elite competitor fighting to rediscover his best level.
As the tournament progresses, Macháč’s form positions him as one of the most dangerous unseeded players remaining in the draw.
By Hameltion – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=146327292
By Hameltion – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=136387649
This match formed part of a demanding Australian Open Day 5, where fine margins and momentum increasingly defined the outcome of key battles.