Kyrgios to tackle Coric in Estoril quarterfinal
estoril — Last year’s finalist Nick Kyrgios got his delayed clay season off to a winning start on Wednesday to set up an ATP showdown with Croatian teenager Borna Coric at the Estoril Open.
The Australian, who has not competed since an April 1 Miami semi-final, made his Portuguese return as he beat Spain’s Inigo Cervantes 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 in the second round following a bye.
He earned the victory in 72 minutes on his 21st birthday to set up the high-profile first-time meeting with Croatian 19-year-old Coric.
Kyrgios expressed some disinterest in his victory after being feted post-match on court with a video of birthday messages from family and friends. “I can think of 50 things I’d rather be doing today rather than playing a match,” he said. “That was one of the best presents I’ve ever had. It was pretty much everyone I’m good friend with or are family. It means a lot that they are supporting me.”
Kyrgios is back at this seaside resort outside of Lisbon after winning the first trophy of his career in February in Marseille.
The world number 20 claimed his 15th victory of the season as he broke in the 11th game of the second set and finished a game later on the first of his three match points. He ended with nine aces.
“There were not many rallies, this was not a very high-quality match. The quarter-final with Borna will be tough as he’s playing well. “All I did today was serve well, that’s what I’ve been doing the last few months.” Coric had to go the two-hour distance as he held off a charge from Rogerio Dutra Silva 6-3, 4-6, 6-1. —