Australians Alexei Popyrin and Maya Joint have made a triumphant return to New York, marking significant victories at the 2025 US Open. Just a year after their memorable performances, both players have once again captured the spotlight at Flushing Meadows.
Popyrin, who celebrated the biggest win of his career during last year’s tournament, kicked off his US Open campaign with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(7/3) victory over Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori. The match, lasting just over two hours, saw Popyrin unleash 10 aces and 44 winners, showcasing his powerful game. However, the Australian now faces a formidable challenge in the second round against top seed Jannik Sinner.
Popyrin’s Journey and Challenges Ahead
The announcement comes as Popyrin prepares to face Sinner, a player he previously defeated at the Madrid Masters in 2021. Despite Sinner’s recent illness that affected his performance in the Cincinnati Open, he showed no signs of weakness in his first-round match, defeating Czech player Vit Kopřiva with ease.
Popyrin, unfazed by the prospect of facing a top seed, expressed his confidence, stating, “If you want to win these tournaments, you have to beat one of these players at some point. I know my game, I know how I can play and I know the trouble I can cause, so I’m not really worried about it.”
“If you want to win these tournaments, you have to beat one of these players at some point.” – Alexei Popyrin
Interestingly, Popyrin has developed unique methods to handle the pressures of professional tennis. He credits science-fiction literature and the music of Ed Sheeran as therapeutic outlets that help him manage the sport’s demands.
Maya Joint’s Breakthrough Performance
Meanwhile, Maya Joint has continued her impressive 2025 season by securing her first major win of the year. Returning as the world number 43, Joint defeated Victoria Jiménez Kasintseva 6-4, 7-6(8/6), avenging previous losses to the Andorran player who had bested other Australians in qualifying rounds.
Joint’s victory is a testament to her remarkable rise in the tennis world. Starting the 2024 season ranked 684th, she has since climbed the rankings, capturing two WTA titles on clay in Morocco and grass at Eastbourne. Her success has not gone unnoticed, with Billie Jean King Cup teammate Ajla Tomljanović praising her potential.
“There is no ceiling on what she might achieve.” – Ajla Tomljanović
Joint demonstrated her resilience against Kasintseva, overcoming pressure in a tightly contested second set. Despite facing set points, she maintained her composure to secure the win and advance to the second round, where she will face eighth-seeded American Amanda Anisimova.
Looking Forward: Future Challenges and Opportunities
As the tournament progresses, both Popyrin and Joint have their sights set on further success. Popyrin’s upcoming match against Sinner will be a test of his skill and mental fortitude, while Joint aims to reach the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time in her burgeoning career.
Elsewhere in the tournament, other Australian players are making their mark. Ajla Tomljanović is set to face third seed Coco Gauff, while Alex de Minaur takes on compatriot Chris O’Connell. Tristan Schoolkate will compete against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego, adding to the excitement of the Australian contingent at the US Open.
The performances of Popyrin and Joint highlight the depth of talent in Australian tennis, offering a glimpse into a promising future for both players. As they continue to navigate the challenges of the US Open, their stories inspire fans and fellow athletes alike.
