'FELT PRETTY SH*T': THOMO SURVIVES SCARE, BUT 'NUMB' POPYRIN SUMS UP AUSSIE WOES

The severe heatwave in London impacted several players on Day 1, including Alexei Popyrin (Getty/Hannah Peters)

It was an underwhelming Day 1 at Wimbledon for the Australian contingent after seven of eight Aussies bowed out early in what was a scorching day in London.

Although temperatures hit as high as 33 degrees throughout the day, that still wasn't an excuse.

Aussie results: Jordan Thompson def. Vít Kopřiva 3-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(1), 6-1

Arthur Fery [WC] def. Alexei Popyrin [20] 6-4, 6-1, 4-6, 6-4

Adrian Mannarino def. Christopher O'Connell 6-2, 6-4, 6-3

Felix Auger-Aliassime [25] def. James Duckworth 6-2, 3-6, 6-7(2), 6-4, 6-4

Donna Vekić [22] def. Kimberly Birrell 6-0, 6-4

Naomi Osaka def. Talia Gibson 6-4, 7-6(4)

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova def. Ajla Tomljanović 4-6, 6-3, 6-2

Solana Sierra def. Olivia Gadecki 6-2, 7-6(8)

By entering the code TFS2025, you will receive 15% off the RRP on all non-sale items when you shop online at www.racquetworld.com.au

Despite fighting through apparent physical pain, Jordan Thompson somehow pulled off a remarkable comeback from two sets down to topple unseeded Czech Vít Kopřiva.

Two weeks ago at the Queen's Club Championships, the Sydneysider withdrew after the first set of his first-round due to injury.

"I still believed I could win, but I just kept telling myself, 'Forget it. You're not going to win'," Thompson said.

"That takes the pressure off. I mean, I can't put too much pressure on myself, even though I do a lot of the time (because) this year's just been a disaster."

Listen to The First Serve dissecting Day 1 action below:

He later added: "I felt pretty sh*t, to be honest. I mean, it's tough. I haven’t practiced. I've been injured. I haven't played many tournaments. I haven't played at 100 per cent this year, it feels like, so I can't say I’m enjoying it too much."

However, the good news stopped there for the Aussies, with seven players falling at the first hurdle, including Alexei Popyrin, who suffered a surprising loss.

The 25-year-old was outclassed in four sets by British wildcard and world No.461 Arthur Fery, but explained the struggles he faced out on court.

"I just felt numb, I didn't feel sad, I didn't feel happy, I just felt numb," a dejected Popyrin admitted. "That's not a feeling I've ever had before.

"I think it just shows that I understand why this result happened. It was because I was under-prepared going into Wimbledon, demotivated going into Wimbledon.

"I have to take time off. I have to prioritise mental health. I want to feel motivated again."

The heartbreak continued when Olivia Gadecki had nine set points in the second set come and go against Lucky Loser Sorana Sierra, while Wimbledon main draw debutant Talia Gibson failed to serve out the second set not once, but twice, in her straight sets loss to four-time major winner Naomi Osaka.

Hume Tennis and Community Centre is Australia’s #1 Tennis Tournament Venue and winner of Tennis Victoria’s Club of the Year 2023, hosting over 60 events each year ranging from Hot Shots to professional tournaments, with a tournament experience for all levels. 

Known as the Tennis Paradise in Melbourne, Hume Tennis boasts 14 outdoor Plexicushion courts, a Café, and a Pro Shop—making it the perfect destination for teams and coaches travelling from interstate, with convenient accommodation available. 

Visit www.humetennis.com.au to find out more.