After defeating Rafael Nadal 6-3,3-6.7-6 in the third round in Indian Wells, Alexandr Dolgopolov said “this win was big”.
“I feel great, I mean, as after every win, of course. This one was bigger and I beat the defending champion, No. 1 in the world.I guess I just need to enjoy this evening and forget about it tomorrow and try to compete the rest of the tournament. I’m still in. That’s great, and I’m really happy I could manage to win today.”
The talented Ukrainian, has lost 10 sets to Nadal on their previous encounters. Perhaps that explains the lack of confidence, serving 5-2 in third set, and got broken at love. When asked if perhaps his chance had gone, after letting Nadal back into the match, Alexandr says:
“Not really. I mean, I knew I’m playing well enough to win. The point was just not to get too nervous. I knew he’s going to make me play that game and not miss much, and I just gave it away. That was all on me. I didn’t serve, didn’t play well, and I just tried to forget about that and come back.I think I did quite well service game at 5All, and the tiebreak was really good at the end for me.”
Dolgopolov will play Fabio Fognini next.
Lucia Hoffman
Tennisvista
Indian Wells, CA
