Miami Open 2018: Roger Federer conqueror was much tougher than I expected - Verdasco
FERNANDO VERDASCO has revealed how tough it was to beat Roger Federer’s conqueror Thanasi Kokkinakis at the Miami Open.
Thanasi Kokkinakis saw his Miami dream end
Kokkinakis scooped the biggest win of his career to date on Saturday when he knocked out top seed Federer in the second round.
The 21-year-old Australian had harboured hopes of going deeper into the tournament.
However, his adventure came to a halt at the hands of Verdasco.
After taking the first set, Verdasco rallied hard and took the match to a tie-breaker.
Tensions grew between the pair with the Spaniard unhappy about the perceived noise from Kokkinakis’ father.
But Verdasco prevailed and set up a fourth round clash against countryman Pablo Carreno Busta.
Sometimes it can come back to you and you win an unbelievable match
And Verdasco has revealed how tough it was to beat Kokkinakis.
“He was playing great and I was just trying to stay in the match,” he told ATP World Tour.
“I was trying to play more aggressive, deep as well as trying to move him around.
“It was tough conditions, hot and windy.
Fernando Verdasco is through to the fourth round
Federer pulls off amazing behind-the-back volley at Miami Open
“I was just trying to fight, trying to stay in the match even with points like the passing shot at 4-4.
“I just had to stay there, keep fighting and be focussed.
“Sometimes it can come back to you and you win an unbelievable match.”