Australian tennis legend Samantha Stosur believes Alex de Minaur, affectionately known as the “Demon,” has all the tools necessary to make a serious run at the upcoming Australian Open. Stosur, a former US Open champion and one of Australia’s greatest players, expressed confidence in de Minaur’s form and mindset as he gears up for his home Grand Slam.
De Minaur, currently ranked world No. 9, is coming off a career-best 2024 season, highlighted by his strong performances at the United Cup and deep runs in several tournaments. Stosur has been impressed with his growth and believes his hard work and determination make him a formidable contender in Melbourne.
In a recent interview, Stosur said, “Alex has exactly what he needs to challenge the best at the Australian Open. His speed, tenacity, and ability to handle pressure are going to be key, especially playing in front of a home crowd. He thrives on that energy, and I think we’ll see him raise his game to another level.”
Stosur pointed to de Minaur’s consistency and mental toughness as significant factors in his ability to compete with the top players. She also noted that his victories over high-profile opponents like Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev in 2024 have boosted his confidence, making him a player no one should underestimate.
“He’s beaten some of the biggest names in tennis, and that’s going to give him a lot of belief going into the Australian Open,” Stosur added. “The way he moves on the court and fights for every point is something special. If he plays his game and stays focused, I truly believe he can go deep this year.”
As de Minaur prepares for the Australian Open, he’ll be looking to build on his strong finish to last season and use his experiences from the United Cup as a springboard. With support from the Australian crowd and endorsements from legends like Stosur, the “Demon” is ready to take on the challenge of his home Grand Slam.
Stosur concluded by saying, “The Australian Open is a tough tournament, but if anyone is ready to rise to the occasion, it’s Alex. He has all the tools he needs, and I can’t wait to see what he’ll do this year.”
