Lehecka Triumphs in Challenging Brisbane Opener to Defend Title

In an impressive display at the Brisbane warm-up tournament, Jiri Lehecka triumphed over fellow Czech player Tomas Machac. The match concluded with a score of 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2 after nearly two and a half hours of competitive play.
Lehecka’s Performance in Brisbane
The victory marks another significant achievement for the 24-year-old, who has already claimed two career titles, both in Australia. Lehecka expressed his satisfaction with the conditions, stating, “There’s no better place to start the season than here.” He added, “It was a great match. I think the level was high for a first match of the season for both of us, so I’m super happy for the win.”
Next Matches
- Lehecka will face American player Sebastian Korda, who won against Monaco’s Valentin Vacherot with a score of 7-6 (7/1), 6-3.
- World number 13 Daniil Medvedev dominated Marton Fucsovics of Hungary, winning 6-2, 6-3 in just 69 minutes.
- Medvedev is set to meet Frances Tiafoe in his next match.
Women’s Draw Highlights
In the women’s bracket, Yulia Putintseva from Kazakhstan achieved a surprising win over American Hailey Baptiste, finishing with a score of 6-2, 6-4. This victory positions her for a second-round challenge against Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk.
Additionally, Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai, now 36, showcased her enduring talent by defeating Ashlyn Krueger from the USA with a close score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-4. Zhang is set to face former champion and world number five, Elena Rybakina, in the next round.
The Brisbane tournament serves as a crucial warm-up as players gear up for the Australian Open, scheduled to begin on January 18.




