Does the Australian Open superstition predict Alcaraz’s career achievements? Fucsovics returns to win, Zheng Qinwen’s top spot now in jeopardy

Three minutes daily to catch up on global tennis news. Hello tennis fans, today is Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Welcome to the news midday report brought to you by Tennis Home.

Following his Australian Open victory that completed the career Grand Slam, Spanish rising star Alcaraz appeared on the covers and front pages of major sports outlets, enjoying immense fame. Among this, ATP’s official Instagram posted a comparison image that sparked heated discussion among fans. The photo shows Federer at the top, Nadal in the middle, and current sensation Alcaraz at the bottom. The comparison highlights that all three reached their first Australian Open final and won the title during their fifth trip to the tournament at age 22, with all victories occurring on February 1 of their respective years — a remarkable historical coincidence.

Some fans have predicted that since Alcaraz’s Australian Open debut victory matches many data points with these two legends, it suggests he might achieve at least as many Grand Slam titles as Federer — that is, at least 20 or possibly more. Currently, Alcaraz leads post-2000 players with 7 Grand Slam titles, 13 short of Federer’s 20. If Alcaraz maintains a pace of 1-2 Grand Slams per year, he could reach 20+ titles in as little as six and a half years or as long as thirteen, meaning he would be no older than 35 at that time. Imagine the excitement! Do you think this Australian Open superstition will come true?

Back to the court. Last night Beijing time, the ATP250 Montpellier tournament in France held its second day of competition. Local rising star Fucsovics made his return since last year’s Toronto Masters injury hiatus, defeating compatriot Rouyer 7-6(7) 6-7(4) 6-2 to claim his first victory since returning. Meanwhile, Polish star Hurkacz was eliminated in the first round by American Damm 7-6(5) 6-4. Players like Humbert, Brown, Busta, and Del Potro all won their matches and advanced.

WTA500 Abu Dhabi: In the singles second round, third seed and Danish rising star Tauson dominated qualifier Waltert 6-3 6-1 to reach the quarterfinals, where she will face American Kessler, who defeated sixth seed Canadian Fernandez 6-3 6-2. In another all-American clash, Baptiste defeated fourth seed Navarro 7-6(6) 0-6 6-3 to advance to the quarterfinals against Russian Samsonova.

Chinese veteran Zhang Shuai and Spaniard Bucsa will compete in the doubles first round today at 3 PM Beijing time against the Ukrainian Kichenok sisters. Best of luck to Zhang Shuai!

WTA250 Cluj-Napoca: In the singles second round, Chinese player Yuan Yue fought a tough 3-hour 24-minute battle, ultimately overturning Spain’s Tomás 4-6 6-2 7-6(5) to secure a thrilling spot in the quarterfinals.

Yesterday’s winner, fourth seed and China’s second-ranked Wang Xinyu, will play her singles second round match today at 5 PM Beijing time against Swiss player Masarova. Additionally, in the latest WTA live rankings, Wang has climbed to 32nd place, closing in on Zheng Qinwen’s 25th spot with around 300 points difference. If Zheng cannot return to the court soon and perform well while Wang continues her winning streak, the top Chinese female player position could be at risk.

WTA250 Ostrava: In the singles second round, three American players — Wolinetz, Parks, and McNally — all won their matches to advance to the quarterfinals together.

Finally, let’s play a guessing game. The image below shows a player during a match. Without any hints, can you recognize who she is?

Last time’s guess was correct as confirmed by fans. Yes, the person in the picture is Sabalenka, who lost the Australian Open final.

(Source: Tennis Home Author: Independent Thinker)