Melbourne, Jan. 22 -- Maddison Inglis marked a stirring return to the Australian Open main draw after four years, producing a gutsy performance to reach the third round of her home Grand Slam and underline her belief that she belongs at the highest level.
Playing before the home fans on ANZ Arena, Inglis overcame world No.48 Laura Siegemund of Germany in a gripping three-set contest, winning 6-4, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (10-7) after nearly three hours of intense tennis.
Ranked more than 100 places below her opponent, Inglis absorbed pressure throughout a match that swung repeatedly on serve and was ultimately decided by two tie-breaks. The home fans played a significant role, lifting the local favourite during key moments, particularly in the decidi...