Bernard Tomic's return to the big tennis scene did not bring the outcome Australian had hoped for.
After years away from the main ATP tours, Tomic managed to pass the Shanghai Masters qualifications, ensuring participation in the main draw.
However, his adventure ended in the first round.
According to Australian media News.com.au, Italian tennis player Matteo Arnaldi beat Tomic by a score of 6-3, 6-1, in a match that lasted only 52 minutes.
For the Australian, this was the first appearance in the main draw of a Masters tour since 2019.
Tomic, who was once considered one of Australia's most promising tennis talents, has spent most of the past years competing in the tournaments of lower levels.
After losing in Shanghai, he acknowledged that the heavy load of matches in recent weeks had affected his physical condition.
Although the result was disappointing, the tour turnout represents a step forward in its efforts to return to higher levels.
Australians indicated earlier that 2026 could be his last tennis season.
This makes each future presentation especially important for a player whose career is marked by talent, great expectations and difficult times.
For Tomic, the question now is not only if he can win big shifts again, but how long will he continue his professional career.
