Lehecka Triumphs in Challenging Opener to Defend Brisbane Title
Defending champion Jiri Lehecka achieved a hard-fought victory against fellow Czech Tomas Machac in the opening round of the 2024 Brisbane International. The match took place on Monday at Pat Rafter Arena and lasted nearly two and a half hours, resulting in scores of 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2. As the third seed, Lehecka now advances to the second round of this prestigious tournament.
Lehecka’s Performance and Match Insights
Lehecka, 24 years old, has recorded two career titles, both secured in Australia. Reflecting on the match, he expressed his fondness for the Brisbane conditions. “The weather and the court conditions here are things that I look forward to,” he noted. The match marked the first official meeting between him and Machac, though the two have trained together since childhood. Lehecka shared, “It’s never easy — I’ve known Tomas since we were kids.”
Upcoming Challenges
Following his victory, Lehecka will face American Sebastian Korda, who triumphed over Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot with scores of 7-6 (7/1), 6-3. This upcoming match promises to be another exciting challenge for Lehecka as he seeks to defend his title.
Other Matches and Draw Highlights
- Alex Michelsen fought through a challenging match against Australian James Duckworth, securing a 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 win. He will next compete against fellow American Learner Tien.
- In the women’s draw, Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan, who entered as a lucky loser, defeated American Hailey Baptiste 6-2, 6-4. Putintseva will next face Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk.
- Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai, aged 36, turned back the clock by winning against Ashlyn Krueger of the U.S. with scores of 6-4, 5-7, 6-4. She is set to meet former champion and world number five Elena Rybakina next.
As the tournament progresses, fans can expect thrilling matches and competition as players aim for early victories in the season-opening Brisbane International.
