German tennis player Eva Lys has returned to Melbourne with high hopes for another successful run at the Australian Open. Last year, her unexpected journey as a lucky loser took her to the round of 16, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Anticipation Ahead of the Australian Open
Certainly confident, Lys expressed her excitement. “I feel good here and can’t wait for it to start,” she stated ahead of her first-round match against Romania’s Sorana Cirstea, scheduled for Tuesday.
Last Year’s Breakthrough
Lys’s impressive performance in the 2025 tournament was born from her entry as a lucky loser after missing out on initial qualification. Following a competitor’s withdrawal, she seized the opportunity and celebrated three remarkable victories. This success propelled her to become Germany’s number one player and finish the year ranked 39th in the world.
Preparation and Challenges
To enhance her performance, Lys traveled to Australia a week before Christmas with her family. The 24-year-old, who resides in Hamburg, explained, “My problem is that I get sick every winter in Hamburg.” She is managing a chronic rheumatic autoimmune disease, which weakens her immune system, making her struggle with cold, damp weather.
Lys emphasized the importance of acclimatization, saying, “The sooner I can adjust to the time difference and the weather, the better.” Her extended stay in Australia has reportedly gone well, alleviating concerns during her preparations.
Aiming for Success on the Court
As her first match approaches, Lys is determined to translate her good feelings into success on the court. Facing a challenging season ahead, she recognizes the necessity of defending her ranking points from last year’s performance. However, she insists that she is not overwhelmed by pressure. “I try to focus on the process and not look at the points so much,” she explained.
Aiming for the Top
Lys has set her sights on establishing herself among the elite players in 2026. Her goal is to break into the top 32, which would grant her seeding in Grand Slam tournaments. She noted that the uncertainty she experienced at the start of last year has dissipated, saying, “I feel like I have arrived among the top players.” With a positive mindset and a strong resolve, Eva Lys is ready to make her mark once again at the Australian Open.
