Walton, Surprise Last-Minute Addition to Miami Round of 16: "It Feels Almost Like a Fresh Start"

The feel-good story of the 2025 Miami Masters 1000 is Adam Walton. The 25-year-old Australian, ranked 89th in the world, took advantage of Hubert Hurkacz's last-minute withdrawal to enter the main draw as a lucky loser.

After losing to his compatriot Tristan Schoolkate in the final round of qualifying (6-3, 6-4), Walton was directly placed in the second round, where he defeated Luciano Darderi (6-4, 6-4). He then confirmed his form in a battle of surprises against Coleman Wong (7-6, 4-6, 6-4) in the third round.

Now in the round of 16, Walton faces a major test against world No. 4 Taylor Fritz, but his tournament is already more than a success. Speaking to ATP media just moments after securing his spot in the fourth round, the Australian reflected on the whirlwind of emotions since learning of his late entry into the Florida tournament.

"Of course, I’m really happy right now. I shouldn’t even be here—I got incredibly lucky this week. I lost in the final round of qualifying, and then three days later, I got the call saying I’d have another chance to play.

It feels almost like a fresh start, like a whole new tournament for me. I’m just really thrilled to be in the round of 16. You know, next week, I was supposed to be playing at high altitude, so I was planning to train there if possible.

But in my mind, I never even thought I’d have a shot at getting into this tournament, let alone a Masters 1000. It’s honestly unbelievable," Walton said on court after his victory over the Hong Kong player.