The business end is fast approaching at Melbourne Park, as the first fourth-round matches were played on Sunday (January 19, 2025) with quarter-final spots up for grabs. Two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka raced into the quarter-finals thanks to an 18th successive Australian Open victory,

The 10-time champion triumphed over the 24th seed, Jiri Lehecka, with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 victory on his favoured Rod Laver Arena, setting up an exciting quarter-final showdown with Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic appears to be growing into the tournament in an ominous sign for his rivals, as he pursues a record-extending 11th Melbourne crown and historic 25th Grand Slam title.