Alexei Popyrin: I’m happy for all Australians that won their first rounds
Alexei Popyrin became the 10th Australian to win the first round of the Australian Open with an impressive performance against Mischa Zverev.
The teenager took out the seasoned veteran in straight sets 7-5, 7-6(7), 6-4 in a match that lasted for just under 2 hours.
“It felt really good. Losing first round last year, getting the opportunity last year and not really taking advantage it, well getting the win this year felt unreal, and it was a big relief,” Popyrin told tennis.com.au.
“I got a little taste of the atmosphere last year and it’s one thing that helped me push on in the match – the crowd was amazing today and they helped me a lot.”
He further added, “Playing an experienced player; I played his brother and that was a great experience for me and playing him and finally beating a Zverev (laughter) was really good.”
The young gun is gaining vital experience over time and has played well in the last two weeks.
“That’s the one thing that’s very important for me, just getting the experience on the big stage, playing Centre Court in Brisbane, playing Centre Court in Sydney, coming very close in Sydney (against Klizan); it was all just experience I reckon,” he reflected.
“(Today it was about) just staying emotionally just calm, not letting the crowd get me really pumped up, because that takes out a lot of energy but it also gives you a lot of energy if you use it the right way.”
“I pay attention to all results and more of the Australian results, and I’m so happy for all the guys that won their first rounds, and all the wildcards who won their first round.”
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from Tennis World USA http://bit.ly/2AQNyfd
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