Stefanos Tsitsipas, a fan favorite at Melbourne Park, defeated Jordan Thompson in an exciting match on Wednesday evening with a final score of 4-6, 7-6, 6-2, 7-6 in the second round of the Australian Open.
The 7th ranked player in the world faced a tough match against his opponent from Sydney. Despite being close to losing two sets in a crucial tiebreak, he managed to hold on and eventually win the match in four sets after three hours and 37 minutes. His opponent, ranked 47th in the world, had multiple opportunities to tie the match at two sets but was unable to do so. It was a nail-biting and intense match for Tsitsipas, but he ultimately emerged victorious.
Tsitsipas expressed his excitement for the intense match, saying that he and his opponent were able to showcase their top-level tennis skills. He also acknowledged his opponent’s determination in making a comeback during a crucial moment in the match.
Thompson appeared to be struggling in the fourth set while the Greek player improved his performance with his unique serving style and powerful groundstrokes, resulting in a 5-3 lead. Tsitsipas had two opportunities to win the match, but Thompson managed to make a comeback after four hours of play. By hitting a deep forehand shot to Tsitsipas’ backhand, Thompson approached the net and successfully made a volley, tying the score at 5-5 in the fourth set.
After successfully winning a game without losing any points, Thompson had the opportunity to win the set as he had four set points on the Greek player’s serve during a long and intense twelfth game that lasted over 12 minutes. However, despite his efforts, Thompson was unable to secure the extra point and Tsitsipas was able to regain control and ultimately win the deciding tiebreak with a score of 7-4.
“I have not experienced many instances in my career where I was unable to win the match, particularly when serving,” stated the runner-up of the 2023 Australian Open. “The challenge for me was to remain strong and not give in. It would have been easy to fall victim to that, but I chose not to because I believe in myself and my ability to handle tough situations based on my past experiences.”
The thrilling event took place in front of approximately 7,500 captivated spectators at the Margaret Court Arena, with equal support for both competitors. The Greek community in Melbourne made their presence known, proudly waving their blue and white flags as the tournament entered its fourth day. Tsitsipas reflected on the intense atmosphere, stating, “We were able to create an incredible atmosphere tonight. There were cheers coming from both sides, mine and Jordan’s.”
Thompson – who beat countryman Aleks Vukic in the first round – loomed as a test for Tsitsipas, after the Australian won the last match between the pair, at Indian Wells last year. The Greek player had a disappointing 2023 despite his run to the final in Melbourne. At that point he was close to the No 1 ranking, but by the end of the year he had won just a single tournament, an ATP 250 event in Mexico.
The start of his preparation for this competition was hindered by a back injury, but he assured before Wednesday’s game that he had completely healed. Witnessing him struggle to assert his dominance over Thompson in the beginning may have caused some of his fans in Melbourne to have lingering concerns.
A service break in the middle of the first set gave the Australian player the advantage. The second set remained on serve with no chances for a service break.
Unfortunately, despite Thompson’s strong performance with punchy baseline plays and occasional charges to the net, he lost the first three points of the second-set tiebreaker. However, he was able to rally and save three set points. Despite having momentum on his side at the change of ends, a long return and netted backhand resulted in the match being tied.
Thompson seemed shaken by the swing and his irritation got the best of him during the beginning of the third set. He hit his racquet against the court in frustration, causing a black piece of plastic to bounce. Despite being down 3-0, he managed to rally and set up an intense ending, but ultimately the Greek player did what was necessary to win.
Tsitsipas is eager for his upcoming match against French competitor Luca Van Assche, who stands at 178cm tall. Van Assche recently defeated 25th-seeded Italian Lorenzo Musetti in five sets. “He possesses a strong baseline game and moves with agility,” Tsitsipas noted. “Despite not being the tallest player, he has impressive skills and can hold his own in long rallies.”
Thompson and his fellow countryman Max Purcell have teamed up in the doubles draw. Meanwhile, Purcell will also be playing against Casper Ruud in the second round of the men’s singles on Thursday.
Source: theguardian.com
