Alex de Minaur had an extra reason to smile after his latest stunning display at the United Cup saw him recover from a set down to beat German star and world No.7 Alexander Zverev in three hard-fought sets.
Not only did he keep Team Australia’s hopes of a tournament final berth alive after Ajla Tomljanovic narrowly lost her women’s singles tie, but it ensured he will enter the ATP top 10 for the first time in his career when the rankings update on Monday.
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Having been overpowered by the German’s strong serving to lose the first set 5-7, de Minaur dug deep to turn the match around, winning the second and third sets 6-3, 6-4 and clinically serving out the victory after taking an early break in the decider.
A raucous crowd at Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney cheered on every point with gusto, the 24-year old’s passionate celebration after calmly putting away a smash to claim match point speaking volumes about what the win meant.
“I love being back home. Thank you guys,” Sydneysider de Minaur told Jim Courier on Nine immediately after the match, triggering another round of cheers.
“I’ve said it before, but every time I step out on court here, it feels special. This is my favourite court in the whole world. Every time I step out here, I get goosebumps. I love being here, and I’m very grateful for all the support.”
De Minaur’s win leaves Australia’s final hopes resting on undefeated pair Storm Hunter and Matt Ebden, who will be looking to secure their fourth consecutive victory at the United Cup when they face Laura Siegemund and Max Marterer in the mixed doubles tie.
MORE TO COME