Alex de Minaur Stuns Nadal in Sydney Opener
De Minaur delivers stunning performance to give Team Australia 1-0 lead
Impressive victory under the lights in Sydney
Sydney, January 10, 2023 - Alex de Minaur delivered a stunning performance under the lights in Sydney on Monday, overcoming World No. 2 Rafael Nadal 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 to give Team Australia a 1-0 lead against Team Spain in the inaugural United Cup.
De Minaur, ranked 24th in the world, played with exceptional energy and determination, neutralizing Nadal's powerful shots and forcing him into uncharacteristic errors. The Australian was particularly impressive in the second set, dominating the rallies and breaking Nadal's serve twice to take it 6-1.
Nadal, who had not played a competitive match since the Paris Masters in November, showed signs of rust in the opening set but gradually found his rhythm. However, de Minaur refused to be intimidated by the 22-time Grand Slam champion and continued to push the pace, eventually breaking Nadal's serve in the 12th game of the third set to secure the victory.
The win was a significant upset, as Nadal holds a 3-1 advantage in their overall head-to-head meetings. It also marked de Minaur's first victory over a top-two ranked player in his career.
Following the match, de Minaur expressed his delight at the victory, saying, "I'm incredibly proud of this performance. Nadal is a legend of the sport, and to be able to beat him on such a big stage is an amazing feeling."
Nadal was gracious in defeat, praising de Minaur's performance and wishing Team Australia well in the tournament. "Alex played incredibly well tonight," said Nadal. "He was very aggressive and made me work hard for every point. I wish him and Team Australia all the best in the United Cup."
Team Australia will now face Team Spain in the mixed doubles match on Tuesday, with de Minaur partnering with Ajla Tomljanovic. Team Spain will be represented by David Vega Hernandez and Nuria Parrizas Diaz.
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