David Ferrer has ended Lleyton Hewitt’s singles career after battling to a 6-2, 6-4, 6-4, win over the former world No.1.
Similar to his first round encounter, the Rod Laver Area was electrifying with almost the entire crowd backing Hewitt. Such popularity might overwhelm some players facing Hewitt but not the extremely experienced Ferrer.
The eighth seed had a chance to break the Australian in the first game of the match but failed to capitalize as Hewitt battled to hold his serve, prompting a massive cheer from the crowd. Meanwhile Ferrer also ensured a tough battle in his opening service game before holding. The first blood drawn in the match occurred during the fifth game after a slow serve from Hewitt was punished by Ferrer to give the Spaniard two break points. The break was handed to Ferrer after a Hewitt backhand failed to go over the net. The break was a pivotal moment in the opening set as the eighth seed took control of the match. An error-stricken service game from the 34-year-old enabled Ferrer to grab the double break and extend his lead to 5-2. Saving two break points, the world No.8 sealed the set following another unforced error from Hewitt’s racket.
At 308th in the world, Hewitt is a long way away from the form which took him to world No.1 back in 2001. In comparison Ferrer is one of the best players in the world. This difference became more evident during the second set.
As proceedings got underway, Ferrer gave his rival a stern test in his opening service game. The 34-year-old fended off two break points before edging ahead 1-0. After a couple games of play Hewitt left thigh started to trouble him as he briefly received some medical treatment during a couple of the changeovers. Despite Hewitt’s troubles, it took nothing away from Ferrer, who was by far the better player on the court. A sensational backhand crosscourt winner gave the Spaniard his first break of the second set to lead 3-2. Ferrer then had a double chance to break once more for a 5-2 lead, but Hewitt battled back during a ten-minute game, prompting an almighty cheer from the crowd. The failure to break haunted Ferrer as Hewitt started to produce his best form of the match. The passion of Hewitt was in full force as he repeatedly shouted when he misses an easy shot. The rejuvenation in Hewitt’s game resulted in Ferrer experiencing a marathon service game. The Australian had 7 chances to level at 4-4, but couldn’t find a way to pass as Ferrer nudged to 5-3. The second set was finally sealed with a big winner from Ferrer, prompting him to shout ‘come on‘.
One of many long rallies between #Hewitt and #ferrer ! #ausopen #plexicushion #melbourne pic.twitter.com/M6cVbR3Ih3
— Cal Sports Surfaces (@CSportSurfaces) January 21, 2016
