2023-09-02 12:22:09
Coming from the qualifications, Dominic Stricker (ATP 128) will play in the round of 16 of the US Open. The Bernese picked up a 6th consecutive success at Flushing Meadows, ensuring at the same time a place among the top 100 of the ATP rankings.
Dominic Stricker won 2-6 7-5 7-6 (7/4) 3-6 6-2 ahead of French guest Benjamin Bonzi (ATP 108) in the 3rd round to confirm the feat signed against Stefanos Tsitsipas (7) in the 2nd round – and in 5 sets already. The icing on the cake, he will become at the end of this fortnight the 13th Swiss to join the world top-100.
The 21-year-old left-hander, who should find himself at worst around 90th place, testified as in the previous round to all his strength of character. His start to the match was a nightmare, however: he lost 16 of the first 19 points to trail 4-0 after less than 12 minutes of play.
Dominic Stricker gradually regained his senses, as well as his left-handed paw, and definitely got his head out of the water in the second heat. More consistent, more incisive on the important points, he also knew how to take advantage of his opponent’s few drops in speed to overturn the table.
Facing Fritz in the round of 16?
His slack in the 4th set was inconsequential. The Bernese tightened his guard in the decisive set, erasing 2 entry break points before forcing the decision by seizing the opposing service for a 6th time in the 4th game. He concluded the game with a final break, arming an unstoppable backhand passing after 3h26′ of play. The public at the Grandstand was amazed.
This accession to the round of 16, which could well serve as a trigger for Dominic Stricker, is priceless. But, in addition to a place in the top-100, it will earn the 2020 Roland-Garros junior champion an attractive check for $284,000. Or more than a third of his cumulative career earnings before this tournament ($805,000).
Dominic Stricker could also experience another great “first” on Sunday: he could have the honors of Arthur Ashe Stadium in the event of a confrontation with American No. 1 Taylor Fritz (9). And to think that the Bernese had to erase a match point in the second round of qualifying against the 144th in the world Pablo Llamas Ruiz!
ats/bao
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