“Tennis does not just depend on two or three players anymore”: Corretja on reason for excessive Australian Open upsets
Tennis News
The former world No. 2 Alex Corretja gave his opinion
on the surprises that the Australian Open 2023 has had. The early elimination
of the main favorites such as Rafael Nadal or Iga Swiatek, and the explosion of
young American talents.
The first Grand Slam of the season has produced
results that few could have predicted before the tournament. For the first time
in the Open Era the first two seeds of the men's draw (Casper Ruud and Rafael
Nadal) dropped in the second round. In the women's draw top seed Iga Swiatek fell in
the fourth round, and 2th seed Ons Jabeur in the second round.
Corretja explained his reasons: ''The first reason,
because tennis does not just depend on two or three players anymore''. ''The
level of the top 60 is much higher than it used to be. Physically, they are
also stronger so they can play longer matches not like before when they only
play an hour and drop their level.”
''Secondly, that the courts in general are playing a
little bit faster, and players make more winners in these conditions and it's
easier to win more points. You can hit easier winners.”
He also argued that the start of the season is
complicated for all the players, since they still do not have enough
competition rhythm: ''Third, at the beginning of the year, it's never easy.
It's always tricky because no-one has the rhythm of the competition. Most players
have only played one tournament, some not played very well.”
‘'Most are already tired when they start the Grand
Slam so it's a tricky situation due to your lack of competition or you're burnt
out already. Or, you have some injuries or issues that prevent you from playing
as well as you can.”
''Finally, I would say the balls feel a little bit
dead and many players play a little bit more flat. They don't make as many mistakes
and they can hit as hard as they want.”
''These are the reasons why I believe many of the
seeds are out earlier in the tournament and why there have been so many upsets.”, closed the Spaniard.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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