Tue. Nov 5th, 2024
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Alex de Minaur has produced the biggest win of his fledgling career, downing world number one Novak Djokovic in straight sets at the United Cup.

De Minaur was on fire from the outset of Wednesday night’s match in Perth, winning 6-4 6-4 in 93 minutes to give Australia a 1-0 lead in their quarter-final tie against Serbia.

Ajla Tomljanovic can secure the tie win for Australia and a spot in the semi-finals with a victory over Natalija Stevanovic in the women’s singles battle.

“It’s extremely special. Novak is an unbelievable competitor,” de Minaur said after breaking the super Serbian’s 43-match, six-year winning streak in Australia.

“It feels surreal, it feels amazing. I’m happy to do it here in Perth and Australia.”

A man dressed in red swings for a tennis ball with a racquet.
Novak Djokovic entered the match under an injury cloud after damaging his wrist while practising on Tuesday morning.(AAP Image: Richard Wainwright)

Djokovic entered the match under an injury cloud, after damaging his wrist while practising on Tuesday morning.

The 24-time grand slam champion overcame the setback to post a 6-1 6-7 (7-3) 6-1 victory over world No.31 Jiri Lehecka later in the day. 

De Minaur was pummelled 6-2 6-1 6-2 by Djokovic in the fourth round of the Australian Open last year.

Wednesday night’s re-match would prove a different story. 

The 24-year-old’s frenetic speed and agility continually frustrated Djokovic, who committed a series of unforced errors throughout the match as he battled wrist pain.

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