Lulu Sun faced a challenging exit from the Australian Open, falling in the first round to Linda Fruhvirtova. This defeat came as Sun attempted a comeback from injury.
Lulu Sun’s Australian Open Journey
The 20-year-old Fruhvirtova, currently ranked 132 in the world, appeared more poised on the court. Having made it through three tough three-set matches in the qualifiers, she reached the main draw and showcased her skills effectively.
Match Overview
This match was notable as it marked Sun’s first appearance since her loss in the Guangzhou Open final in October. That defeat had initially dropped her ranking from 40th to 164th before the US Open.
- Opening Points: Sun started strong, breaking Fruhvirtova in the first game to lead 2-0.
- Shifts in Momentum: Despite her early lead, Sun’s errors allowed Fruhvirtova to claim five consecutive games, winning the first set 6-3.
Second Set Struggles
Fruhvirtova began the second set with momentum, breaking serve early. However, Sun countered effectively, even taking a 3-1 lead at one point.
- Key Moments: Sun struggled with her serve, resulting in multiple double faults.
- Staying Competitive: Sun fought back against adversity, breaking Fruhvirtova’s serve after facing multiple match points.
Ultimately, Fruhvirtova regained her footing and closed the match, preparing for a second-round face-off against compatriot Tereza Valentova. Sun’s determination was clear, but the match ended in a bittersweet defeat.
This exit raises questions about Sun’s performance moving forward and will likely prompt discussions about her trajectory in the sport.
