Despite Strong Performance, Hanfmann Loses to Alcaraz - Alcaraz survives Hanfmann’s challenge to advance at Australian Open
Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz faced a tough challenge from German opponent Yannick Hanfmann in the second round of the Australian Open. Despite a strong start, Hanfmann lost in straight sets, ending his run at the tournament. Meanwhile, Laura Siegemund advanced to the second round and will face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis next.
Hanfmann began the match with determination, taking Alcaraz to a tiebreak in the first set. Though he fought hard, he lost it 4-7 and eventually fell 6-7 (4-7), 3-6, 2-6. The German also received medical treatment for an abdominal issue but carried on playing.
The match lasted two hours and 44 minutes before Alcaraz secured his spot in the third round. Hanfmann’s defeat means his wait for a first third-round appearance at a major continues. With this result, Alexander Zverev remains the only German man left in the men’s draw. He will now take on French player Alexandre Müller in the second round for a chance to reach the third round. In the women’s draw, Laura Siegemund progressed after her first-round win on January 21, 2026. She will next play Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Alcaraz moves forward in the tournament after a hard-fought victory over Hanfmann. Zverev is now the sole German male player still competing at the Australian Open. Siegemund’s match against Inglis will determine her path in the women’s draw.
