New Delhi: Türkiye’s Zeynep Sönmez’s kind act went viral on the opening day of the Australian Open 2026 on Sunday, January 18. Sönmez, who earned a historic victory after beating Russia’s 11th seed, Ekaterina Alexandrova, in her women’s singles opening round clash, won hearts with her gesture for a ball girl who fainted during the match.
The incident took place when Alexandrova was serving for the second set to level the match after Sönmez took the first set 7-5. A ball girl, who stood close to the umpire’s chair, fell on her back after fainting, possibly due to the hot and humid conditions during the daytime in Melbourne.
She stood up immediately before Sönmez rushed towards her and helped her walk to the side of the court to get the required medical attention. The umpire also got down from his chair to assist the ball girl as the play was paused for around six minutes.
As Sönmez helped the ball girl move to the side of the court with her arm over her own shoulder, her kind act was met with huge applause from the fans present inside the arena. The Turkish tennis player’s gesture was also hailed by many on social media as she won hearts with her act for the ball girl.
Watch Zeynep Sönmez’s kind gesture for ball girl at Australian Open:
A ball girl fainted during the Zeynep Sonmez and Ekaterina Alexandrova match at the Australian Open.
Zeynep immediately went over to help her & walked her off the court.
Compassion. ❤️
pic.twitter.com/FzNQalCyJa
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 18, 2026