British qualifier Arthur Fery ensured his mother's last-minute flight across the world was not wasted, delivering a stunning performance to defeat 20th seed Flavio Cobolli on his Australian Open debut.
A Family Affair and a Statement Win
The 23-year-old Londoner, who came through qualifying without dropping a set, produced a hugely impressive display on John Cain Arena to win 7-6 (1), 6-4, 6-1. The victory came against an out-of-sorts Cobolli, who was visibly struggling with stomach issues throughout the match.
Fery's mother, Olivia, a former professional tennis player herself, decided to make the long trip to Melbourne after watching her son secure his place in the main draw. "When I won that last round, she asked me if she could come," said Fery. "I said, 'Of course, it would be nice to have you here'. It's obviously a long way, but at least I made it worth it. She can see at least two matches – hopefully more." His father and siblings watched from home in the early hours.
From Wimbledon to Melbourne: A Pattern Emerges
This seismic win follows a similar triumph just six months ago, when Fery toppled then 20th seed Alexei Popyrin at Wimbledon. Being drawn against the same seeded position here in Melbourne felt like a positive omen for the confident Brit.
Ranked world number 185 and playing in only his fifth Grand Slam main draw match, Fery possesses remarkable self-assurance. His development was aided by having parents who understand professional sport; his father, Loic, is the owner and president of French football club Lorient. "It definitely really helped when I was younger... to have two parents who know how pro sport works and the pressures of it," Fery acknowledged.
Navigating Drama and Seizing Control
The opening set was punctuated by two lengthy video review delays, creating a football-like atmosphere. Cobolli argued Fery had touched the net, while Fery successfully challenged that his opponent had served underarm while a ball boy was still moving. "I knew it was worth the wait," Fery said of his own call.
After a fluctuating first set where he twice failed to serve it out, Fery dominated a poor tie-break from his erratic opponent. Standing at 5ft 9in, he compensates with terrific athleticism and a fast arm. He took control with a superb returning game to seal the second set before breezing through the third.
Fery, whose career has been interrupted by bone bruising in his arm, now faces Argentina's Tomas Martin Etcheverry in the next round. "I just feel really confident," he stated. "I feel I don't have to overplay to play with guys like that." His mother's impromptu journey has already been rewarded, with the promise of more to come.
