Australians to face well-rested Canada
TENNIS: Alex de Minaur has reinforced his reputation as one of the most exciting young players in world tennis, seeing off Belgium’s David Goffin yesterday to book Australia’s spot in the Davis Cup quarterfinals.
The 20-year-old Sydneysider beat the world No.11 6-0 7-6 (8-6) to seal Australia’s first victory over Belgium since 1991.
The Aussies finished top of Group D, setting up a clash with Canada this morning.
De Minaur’s victory continued his brilliant year. In 2019 he has won three ATP titles to rocket up to world No.18.
In the opening match of the tie, Nick Kyrgios saw off a gutsy Steve Darcis 6-2 7-6 (10-8) in a thrilling encounter.
Australia’s joy over their progression to the quarter-finals was tempered, however, by an injury to doubles specialist John Peers.
Jordan Thompson and Peer’s doubles rubber was abandoned after just one game.
Leading 1-0 against Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen, Peers appeared in discomfort and after he approached captain Lleyton Hewitt, who was keen to take no chances, Belgium were awarded the win.
“I’m not risking him before we have a quarter-final match tomorrow,” Hewitt said.
The tie against Canada takes place on centre court at the Caja Magica in what will be Australia’s third successive late-night finish.
Hewitt said the scheduling had been far from ideal and with Canada having an extra day’s rest, his team had it all to do against a side containing world No.15 Denis Shapovalov, an in-form Vasek Pospisil and teenage sensation Felix Auger Aliassime.
“We just got to do the same as last night,” Hewitt said.
“The boys just have to do all the right things – food, treatment, get enough sleep as well ... they should be used to it.”
— Ian McCullough