The Next Generation illustrated their potential
With the absence of the ‘big four,’ the rising stars of the men’s game seized the chance to step up and make a name for themselves. In Brisbane 18-year-old Alex de Minaur scored a series of high profile wins to reach his maiden ATP semifinal. The Spanish-based player stunned top 50 players Steve Johnson and Raonic with the help of some blistering tennis. Illustrating his potential on the tour.
“You have some of your biggest highs, and then you’ve got some matches where you finish and you’re a little bit heartbroken, but this is what I love about this sport,” de Minaur said following his semifinal loss to Ryan Harrison.
“This is just going to make me work harder tomorrow, get ready for my next one.
“I’m looking at the bigger picture. I’ve had a great week, and this is just going to help me for the next upcoming weeks and the Australian Open as well.”
At the Doha Open, there were two youngsters that thrilled the crowd. Former junior world No.1 Stefanos Tsitsipas, who came through qualifying, was almost faultless during his straight sets win over Richard Gasquet. His run was ended in the quarter-finals by Dominic Thiem, who has predicted a bright future for the Greek player.
“He’s already so good at a young age. I think he’s going to be for sure a top player in the near future,” said Thiem. “He’s playing very well, aggressive with a good service, nice one-handed backhand.”
Tsitsipas!!! (🎥Eurosport) pic.twitter.com/Xx1rdq8W8f
— doublefault28 (@doublefault28) 3 January 2018
World No.39 Andrey Rublev also impressed by reaching his third ATP final. The Russian was unable to clinch the title after falling to Gael Monfils at the last hurdle.
