The Australian Open has long been one of my favourite sporting events. Situated perfectly in the depths of our winter, the happy, blue courts, and warm summer scenes offer a sharp contrast to our long, cold nights. Plus, the matches are often well-timed for Pacific primetime.
This year, the Australian Open also offers a glimpse into a COVID-free world, with up to 30,000 fans allowed into the stadium each day. (A+ to Australia for quelling community transmission.) However, the game has been modified to replace line judges with electronic line calling. As a result, the game is a lot faster, with no challenges disrupting play, or players *ahem* threatening to jam tennis balls down line judge’s throats.
And, now is the perfect time to tune in with so many Canadians succeeding at the highest level.
Bianca Andreescu has returned after 15 months away from competitive tennis. Following her US Open win in 2019, she succumbed to a knee injury that forced her away from the sport altogether. Finally back in fighting form, her first match had her face a tough opponent in Romania’s Buzărnescu. But, she managed to claw her way back to win in the third set 6-2, 4-6, 6-3 with some killer serves and her trademark tenacity.
Also, on the women’s side is Rebecca Marino. This 6-foot heavy hitter from North Vancouver retired in 2012 as a result of a battle with depression. Eight years later, she’s back in action, serving up impressive aces, and winning her first round match in decisive fashion 6-0, 7-6. I’m so happy to see her back on the court and in winning form!
In unsurprising news, Serena Williams is also looking particulary sharp having beaten Naomi Osaka (who many favour to win) in a lead-up tournament 6-3, 6-4. I have a feeling this is the next Grand Slam she puts away.
And, on the men’s side, the usual Canadian suspects are back in the mix, including Felix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov, Milos Raonic, and Vasek Pospisil. Last night, Denis survived an epic 5-set battle against Jannik Sinner 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 4-6, 6-4, proving that these early matches can still lead to epic battles.
So, tune in and give it a watch – even if just to remember what warm feels like for a few minutes.
