Tristan Schoolkate and Storm Hunter have joined Bernard Tomic in the second round of Roland Garros qualifying following their triumphs on Wednesday morning (AEST).
Schoolkate fought off a fast-approaching Kimmer Coppejans to record his maiden victory at the claycourt major. The No.15 seed defeated the Belgian 7-5 1-6 6-4 in two hours and 13 minutes to advance.
In an even first set, Schoolkate broke when it mattered most, converting one of four set points at 6-5 to gain an early lead.
Coppejans threatened to steal the match from the West Australian, winning 10 of the next 13 games to race to a 4-2 lead in the final set. However, Schoolkate remained composed, winning the last four games to emerge victorious.
Schoolkate’s win on Wednesday nudges him one step closer to a third-straight Grand Slam main-draw appearance. The 25-year-old will be back in action on Day 3, up against American Darwin Blanch.
Schoolkate was not the only Australian victor on Day 2. Hunter recorded a 6-3 6-1 win over compatriot Tahlia Kokkinis, who was on Roland Garros debut.
The world No.193 converted on five of seven break point opportunities in the victory, as she aims to qualify in Paris for the third time.
Hunter will also play on Day 3 when she faces 30th seed Wang Xiyu, who is targeting a return to the final round of Roland Garros qualifying.
Schoolkate and Hunter will be joined on Day 3 by Tomic who features in the second match on Court 2 against Italian teenager Federico Cina.
It comes after Tomic came from a set down on Day 1 in his first-round match against 28th seeded Tunisian Moez Echargui to prevail 3-6 7-5 6-3.
He is hoping to reach the third round of qualifying at the French major for the first time in eight years.
Aussies in action
COMING UP ON DAY 3
Men’s qualifying singles, second round
Bernard Tomic (AUS) v Federico Cina (ITA) – Second match, Court 2
[15] Tristan Schoolkate (AUS) v Darwin Blanch (USA) – Fifth match, Court 9
Women’s qualifying singles, second round
Storm Hunter (AUS) v [30] Wang Xiyu (CHN) – Fourth match, Court 2