NEW DELHI: Swiss player Dominic Stricker achieved the most significant victory of his career on Wednesday by triumphing over Greek seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a thrilling five-set match, with a final score of 7-5, 6-7(2), 6-7(5), 7-6(6), 6-3.
This remarkable win propelled Stricker into the third round of the US Open.
Participating in his inaugural U.S. Open main draw, Stricker, ranked 128th in the world, showcased a dominant serve, powerful forehand shots, and adept net play throughout a grueling four-hour contest.
His relentless efforts resulted in breaking the Australian Open finalist six times, marking his first victory against a top-10 opponent.
"I came out today pretty well. I felt good from the first set on. It was a tough battle but I am just super happy right now," said Stricker. "I am going to enjoy the rest of the day and then I will recover for the next round."
For Tsitsipas, who won an ATP 250 title in Los Cabos in early August but then went a combined 1-2 at Masters 1000 events in Toronto and Cincinnati, the loss marked another early U.S. Open exit after falling in the first round last year.
Tsitsipas had a chance to serve for the match while leading 5-3 in the fourth set but Stricker stepped up with the break en route to forcing a decider where he consolidated an early break with a hold to love for a 3-0 lead that sent him on his way.
"I was down 3-5 and then I came back in the fourth set. I don't know how, but I did it somehow and then I kept playing very high level tennis. I am a bit speechless but it is a great day," said the 21-year-old Stricker.
"Such a great day for me, such a great win," Stricker added. "It gives me a lot of confidence and I think it is great to see from my team. We are working hard every day and it is so great to do that."
(With inputs from Reuters)
