Cameron Norrie faced Casper Ruud in the Australian Open third round. He won one set in three matches, a bad matchup. Without huge game changes, he lost.
Thus, his desire to change his game and offer something new to tennis is great. British world No. 8 seized possession at the net, strained Ruud, and won 6-4, 6-7 (7), 6-4, 6-3 to advance to the fourth round.
“In terms of performances, it was up there with one of my best, I think, in a Grand Slam,” said Norrie. Second set defeat, two set points, strong serving. Inspired, I departed. Breakdown #3: Stayed Strong I liked the plan and followed it. I played well today. Greetings.”
Norrie’s first Australian Open last-16 spot came after a fantastic win. Norrie has only defeated a top-20 player twice in 12 grand slams, besting No. 11 Ruud.
This result seemed implausible ten days ago. Norrie withdrew from his home tournament in Auckland because of wrist issues. He defeated qualifier Giulio Zeppieri in five sets in the second round.
He stated, “I think after that match, I didn’t play my best and wasn’t feeling mentally good and won in five sets.” I felt confident afterward. Today I felt wonderful and was ready for Casper.”
Cameron Norrie entered the third round confident after overcoming such significant challenges. He attacked Ruud’s backhand, stormed the net, and forced the Norwegian to find a passing shot on his weaker wing to start the match. He won the set with great serving and dropped shots after breaking serve.
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The Ruud gathered steam. The Norwegian gained a 3-2 third-set break lead after gliding through his serve games. Norrie won again instantly. He blocked Ruud’s backhand, volleyed well, and challenged him to pass.
After recovering from the break and shutting down his opponent, Norrie dominated. Finishing each winning point near the net with nerve won the game. Norrie excelled, scoring 41 of 56 net points, striking 63 winners, and showing new court skills as John Cain Arena screamed.
Cameron Norrie later stated why he kept fighting tennis despite his achievements. Despite physical challenges, he worked hard. He wants equal matchwork.
He remarked, “I think I was before playing physical, and it was physical for me and not the other guy.” Aggressing the other man to fight is likely aggressive. Perhaps my best tennis is then.”
Wimbledon hurt Norri’s form. Forrie has lost 13 of his last 17 matches this season. He looked exhausted from his busy schedule and hard work. Norrie emphasized off-season success. Refreshed.
“I think it just helped having a good break and a really good offseason to put a lot of time on the court and get better,” said Norrie. The key is playing huge points well and keeping calm and confident. It felt seasonal. I want to continue. I know it gets harder. Harder match next time. Enjoy today and continue.”
Sixth seed Alexander Zverev defeated Michelsen 6-2, 7-6 (4); therefore, Norrie will play him.
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