Millman to turn up heat

Novak’s scalp beckons at hot US Open

John Millman is vowing to take the fight to Novak Djokovic, knowing he can’t die wondering if he’s to have any hope of continuing his captivating US Open run.

The Australian underdog’s quarter-final with the 13-time grand slam champion has been scheduled as the second feature night match at New York’s Arthur Ashe Stadium, starting about 10.15am today (AEST).

With the unfancied world No.55 having shattered Roger Federer’s 40-from-40 record against non-top 50 opponents at Flushing Meadows, the tennis world will be watching as Millman attempts to add Djokovic’s scalp to that of the Swiss superstar.

“Again, it might sound a bit boring but I’ve got to control my side of the court,” Millman said after a hearty practice session in the suffocating humidity that

forced the extreme heat rule to be imposed again on Tuesday (local time).

“I’ve got to be really tight with my unforced errors, take my chances and take it to him a little bit. Anything that drops short, I’ve got to try to take advantage of it.

“I’m under no illusions that I’m going to have to have one of my very best days to get the job done.”

Statistics support the 29year-old’s theory that he needs to be bold.

In winning his past three matches, Millman has hit half as many winners as his vanquished opponents.

Millman struck 72 winners, compared with 140 from Federer, Mikhail Kukushkin and Fabio Fognini combined.

Djokovic’s Australian strategist has been a keen observer of Millman’s surprise foray through the draw, busily crunching the numbers from the Queenslander’s matches.

“His run has been predicated on committing less errors than his opponent,” Craig O’Shannessy said. “His opponents have committed 61 per cent of all errors and Millman’s been dining on that.

“The problem in the matchup with Novak is that Novak also employs the same overarching strategy and, historically, does it better.”

After perishing in the heat, Federer said after his shock loss that the brutal conditions had favoured Millman.

The Brisbane baseliner is not so sure but is backing his supreme fitness against Djokovic.

“Look, Novak’s quite conditioned,” Millman said.

“I know I’m meant to be conditioned and used to it, but it’s not so easy for anyone out there.

“But I’ll use every little advantage out there. If it does prove to be an advantage then that’s great but it’s going to be tough for everyone.”