Inspired Aussies De Minaur, Kokkinakis thriving at Roland Garros

“I thought there’s no reason why I can’t do it, so it’s just good to finally be able to be in the third round,” he said.

“Ultimately my goal is not to make the third round, it’s to go for bigger and better things.”

His compatriot Kokkinakis reaches the third round for the second consecutive year, and the third time overall, after two gruelling five-set battles.

Even though this is a stage he has previously reached in Paris, the world No.100 said De Minaur’s form was inspiring.

“Alex is leading the way for us, just the way he’s going about his business, he deserves the best,” Kokkinakis said.

“I’m trying to follow in his footsteps and play as well as I can.”