MELBOURNE — Alfie Hewett’s quest for a fourth consecutive Australian Open wheelchair singles title remains firmly on track, but the British star’s campaign for a ninth straight Grand Slam doubles crown with partner Gordon Reid came to a surprising end in a dramatic day at Melbourne Park.
Hewett, the world number one, navigated a tense all-British quarter-final against his long-time friend and doubles partner, Reid, winning 6-3, 6-1. However, the duo’s historic dominance in the men’s wheelchair doubles was halted just hours later in the semi-finals, falling to the Japanese pairing of Takuya Miki and Tokito Oda 6-4, 6-7(5), 7-6(10-6).
A Familiar Foe, A Professional Performance
The singles match on Kia Arena presented a unique challenge for both players. Hewett and Reid share one of the most successful partnerships in all of tennis, but on this occasion, they were opponents vying for a place in the final four. The familiarity was evident, with both players showcasing their tactical nous. The first set was a tight affair, with Hewett needing to save break points early before finding his rhythm to secure the crucial break. From there, the 26-year-old’s power and precision proved decisive.
Reflecting on the peculiar dynamic of facing Reid, Hewett acknowledged the difficulty. "It's never easy playing your doubles partner, and especially your best mate on tour," Hewett said. "We know each other's games inside out. I'm just happy to get through that one and be into the semi-finals."
Doubles Dynasty Disrupted in Marathon Thriller
The focus then swiftly shifted to the doubles, where Hewett and Reid were the undoubted favourites. The ‘Reid-ewett’ pairing had not lost a Grand Slam match since the 2022 US Open final, a run encompassing eight major titles. They faced a determined Japanese team in Miki and Oda, the latter being Hewett’s primary rival for the world No. 1 singles ranking.
The match was an instant classic, stretching over three hours. The British pair fought back from a set down to force a deciding match tie-break, saving a match point in the process. However, the Japanese duo held their nerve in the dramatic finale, converting their fourth match point to seal a monumental victory.
The loss ends one of the most remarkable streaks in modern tennis. Hewett and Reid’s dominance in doubles has been a cornerstone of their careers, and the defeat marks a significant shift in the discipline’s landscape. Key factors in the match included:
- Relentless Japanese Returning: Miki and Oda consistently found depth and angles on their returns, putting the usually dominant British serve under constant pressure.
- Nerve in the Clutch: In the high-pressure points of the match tie-break, the Japanese pair executed with precision, while uncharacteristic errors crept into the Brits' game.
- Strategic Shifts: Miki and Oda effectively targeted the middle of the court to disrupt Hewett and Reid’s fluid movement and net play.
Reaction and Refocus
A visibly disappointed Hewett was gracious in defeat but candid about the end of their incredible run. "All good things come to an end," he stated. "Credit to them, they played the big points better. We had our chances, especially in that second set tie-break and in the match tie-break, but we couldn't quite execute."
Gordon Reid echoed his partner's sentiments, highlighting the fine margins. "It was an epic match, and it could have gone either way. It's disappointing, of course, but we have to take it on the chin. They were the better team on the day in the crucial moments."
The Road Ahead in Singles
For Hewett, the immediate task is to refocus on his singles title defence. He now faces a blockbuster semi-final against the very player who just helped defeat him in doubles: Tokito Oda. The 17-year-old Japanese sensation, who won the Wimbledon singles title last year, represents the new generation challenging Hewett’s throne. Their head-to-head record is tightly contested, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
In the other half of the draw, Gordon Reid’s tournament continues in the doubles consolation event, while the second singles semi-final will feature Takuya Miki against the experienced Spaniard, Martín de la Puente. The upset in the doubles draw has undoubtedly blown the competition wide open, with several teams now believing the title is within reach.
A Legacy Intact, But a New Challenge Rises
While the doubles streak is over, the legacy of Hewett and Reid as one of the greatest doubles pairings in wheelchair tennis history is unassailable. Their run of eight consecutive Slams is a feat that may not be matched for a very long time. Their sportsmanship and ability to compartmentalize—shifting from intense singles rivals to a unified doubles team and back again—remain a testament to their professionalism.
The results from Day 9 signal a potential changing of the guard, particularly from the young Japanese contenders. Oda and Miki have proven they can beat the very best on the biggest stage. For Hewett, the challenge is now twofold: to avenge his doubles loss in the singles semi-final and to ensure his singles dynasty at Melbourne Park continues for another year.
The atmosphere promises to be electric for the Hewett-Oda semi-final. As Hewett himself put it, "It's going to be another battle. He's a great player, we've had some fantastic matches, and I'll have to be at my very best." The path to the title is clear, but the landscape of wheelchair tennis at the top has just become more intriguing than ever.