It was a tough watch as Alex de Minaur walked into his press conference at 11.04pm on Saturday night.

The Australian No.1 had just lost to Norway’s Casper Ruud for the first time in his career, and not only in front of his home fans, but on Ken Rosewall Arena – the court he grew up on.

De Minaur stepped into the room following his 6-3, 6-3 loss, shoulders slumped, and fronted a handful of reporters.

He was polite and patient, but he was also deflated, and processing the disappointing start to his 2026 season as cheers from the small but passionate crowd at the mixed doubles tie echoed throughout Sydney Olympic Park.

“I think I had a little bit of a slow start, but I think Casper played a very good match today, from the beginning to the end,” de Minaur said.

“I had some chances and break points, but he served really well throughout the whole match, and didn’t really give me too many chances or opportunities. I think it was a well-deserved win for him........

© Brisbane Times