The Wrocław-born player had a free draw in the opening round, and in the second round he defeated Britain’s Jack Draper 6:1, 7:5 on Friday. On Sunday he started by winning two games in just six minutes, but after that the battle became much tighter. The German quickly brought the match to a 2:2 tie, and the Pole’s triumph in the first set was decided only by a breakthrough after daring hits near the line in the 10th game.
The second set started with three break points, but faster at his own serve the game was calmed down by Altmaier, who took a 3:1 lead.
The Pole managed to make up for this loss in the sixth game. Both players went “head to head” after that, not allowing themselves any more breaks.
In the tie-break, Hurkacz gained a “psychological advantage” by scoring a point at 4-2 on his rival’s serve after an exchange that the Pole settled in his favor, despite the fact that the German, in a difficult situation, defended for a long time.
The Wrocławian then settled the match in his favor with great confidence, taking advantage of the first match ball.
This was the first duel between the two tennis players.
The German is ranked 61st in the world ranking, while Hurkacz is ninth in it.
The Pole’s next opponent will be the winner of the match between Argentine Sebastian Baez (#18) and American Taylor Fritz (#12).
The result of the 3rd round match (1/16 finals):
Hubert Hurkacz (Poland, No. 8) - Daniel Altmaier (Germany) 6:4, 7:6 (7-2).
