“Any time you’re winning matches at the Olympics, it’s a good feeling,” Ellen, the world No.10 doubles player said after the match. 

“It’s always nice to get through the first one, just to get some momentum. They were a good team, we did well at times, we were under the pump in the second and we were able to claw that back.”

“It was a tough match going into it. Granollers is one of the top doubles players and Sorribes Tormo, she won her women’s doubles match earlier. I think we played really well,” Matt added. 

“Ellen lit it up, literally, from start to finish. Way to bring your best at the Olympics, that’s why we are here, to try and play our best at the best events, and it’s no better time for it.”

Looking ahead, the Aussie pair will play the winner of Chinese duo Qinwen Zheng and Zhizhen Zhang or Croatia’s Donna Vekic and Mate Pavic in the quarterfinals. 

“It’s going to be a tough match, they are all tough and that’s why we are at the Olympics. It’s the best of the best and we’ve got to keep doing our thing,” Matt said. 

Earlier today Alex de Minaur and Alexei Popyrin fell to American No.4 seeds Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram in the first round of men’s doubles. 

“It was good to step out there with Alexei. We’ve literally shared every stage of our careers together,” Alex said after the match. 

“From playing under 10s to Tennis Europe to juniors to Junior Davis Cup, Futures, Challengers, everything. Davis Cup and Olympics, especially becoming Olympic roomies, has been a lot of fun.

“I’m just excited I was able to compete. I wasn’t sure that I would have the opportunity to play. 

“I’ve enjoyed being around the athletes, the village, the Opening Ceremony, it’s been a surreal experience. I’m very happy to have been a part of it.”

Alexei will continue to fly the flag for Australia in the men’s singles. He faces three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka in the second round on Tuesday.