Australian Open 2025 LIVE updates: Djokovic, Alcaraz clash in grand slam blockbuster; De Minaur keeps Aussie hopes alive

If Alex de Minaur’s emotional mother, Esther, did not steal the show on Rod Laver Arena on Monday night, she at least made our hearts melt.

Moments after her battle-hardened son advanced to his first quarter-final at the Australian Open with a straight-sets victory over American Alex Michelsen 6-0, 7-6 (7-5), 6-3, cameras caught her covering her face with her hands after she was overwhelmed with emotion and tears.

The moment came immediately after match point. The camera initially zoomed in on de Minaur’s fiancee, Katie Boulter, in his player’s box before it became apparent that mum was struggling to hold it together.

She was comforted before composing herself, applauded her son and then embraced Boulter. It was a real Hollywood movie moment.

“She was a mess,” de Minaur told Nine on Monday night. “I saw the replay, and she got quite emotional. It was great to see.”

“My whole family is here. They have been able to come over and watch me play, and it is truly special.

“I am glad they have been here to witness this ride. Hopefully, it is not over yet.”

De Minaur, who is aiming to become the first Australian man to win his home Open since Mark Edmondson in 1976, plays world No.1 Jannik Sinner in a quarter-final tomorrow. We are sure that his mum will be following every point.