There is something unmistakable about players who show up to the Australian Open ready to compete for every ball, and Jake Dembo did exactly that. The Australian, currently ITF World Junior No. 52, delivered a strong and determined run in Melbourne that showed both his level and his competitive mindset on one of the biggest junior stages in the world.
Dembo opened his campaign with a statement performance against Ren Matsumura (ITF No. 131). In a match defined by intensity and composure in key moments, Dembo edged a tight first set 7-6 (4) before pulling away in the second set 6-2. He played with great energy from start to finish and handled pressure situations with maturity, setting the tone for his tournament.
The second round presented a tough challenge against Kuan-Shou Chen (ITF No. 16). Dembo competed hard and continued to bring positive energy, but Chen’s consistency and pace proved decisive in a 6-2 6-3 loss. It was a demanding match against one of the top players in the world and a valuable experience at this level.
Alongside his singles run, Dembo also put together an impressive doubles campaign with his partner Daniel Jovanovski (ITF No. 35). The pair reached the quarterfinals after a series of high quality performances. In the first round, they defeated Tito Chavez (ITF No. 20) and Rihards Neimanis (ITF No. 34) 6-2 7-5, showing great chemistry and control. In the second round, they earned a standout win over the No. 8 seeds Ryan Cozad (ITF No. 22) and Gavin Goode (ITF No. 19), closing the match 7-5 6-3 with confidence and clarity in the big moments.
Their doubles run came to an end in the quarterfinals against Hyu Kawanishi, currently (ITF No. 45), and Kanta Watanabe (ITF No. 56), falling 6-3 6-2 in a tough and competitive match.
Reaching the second round in singles and the quarterfinals in doubles at the Australian Open is a strong result and an important step forward. More than the scores, Dembo’s tournament was defined by his fighting spirit, consistent energy, and willingness to compete on every point. Melbourne tested him, and he left with momentum and belief as he continues his journey on the junior tour.
* All rankings mentioned are as of 05 January 2026.