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0 Alex de Minaur was ecstatic after defeating Rafael Nadal 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 in Australia’s opening leg against Spain at the United Cup.
After three unsuccessful attempts to overcome the 22-time grand slam champion, de Minaur became emotional when reflecting on the significance of achieving the “dream” on his home court.
“Honestly, I couldn’t be happier that I managed to get my first win over Rafa on this court,” he said post-match on the Ken Rosewall Arena.
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“There’s no secret that this is my favourite court in the entire world. I knew it was going to be a battle. Rafa is a hell of a competitor and what he’s been able to do for this sport is truly astounding, so I’m just honoured and it’s a dream come true to be able to beat him.”
With his win over Nadal, de Minaur joined an exclusive group of just four Australians to beat the Spaniard over his decorated career after Lleyton Hewitt, Chris Guccione and Nick Kyrgios had all managed the feat.
De Minaur was dominant during the second set, becoming just the first Australian to hold Nadal to less than two games in a set in 47 matches against an Aussie opponent.
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Asked what was going through his mind in the closing stages of the third set to hold off an erratic Nadal, de Minaur said he adopted an infallible line of thought.
“As you’re trying to serve that out it’s completely natural to have these different scenarios coming into your head, but I tried to think as little as possible,” he said.
“I just said to myself, ‘See ball, hit ball’, and it worked out. I was able to serve probably the best game I’ve served all match (to close it out) so I’ll definitely take that.
Ever vocal about the gratification he feels when representing his country, de Minaur was excited to get a win on the board for Australia.
“I can’t wait for the Aussie summer, it’s the best time of the year. Hopefully, I can do Australia proud and play some good tennis over the next coming weeks.
“Honestly, whenever I get the chance to play for Australia, I’m a true believer in there being no greater honour than representing your country. So every time there’s an opportunity I’ll put my hand up. I love doing it, I love playing for Australia and I’ll keep doing it with a smile on my face.”
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