In an instant, 25 years of hard graft were rewarded when Denis Istomin scored the biggest win of his career over Novak Djokovic, Mr Australian Open. It justified his persistence, dedication and perseverance as a pro. “It means so much for me, of course, to beat the World No. 2,” said Istomin, following his five-set win on Thursday. “I just I hope that is not the only one victory of mine. I will try to keep going the same way and trying to win some more.” The World No. 117 never expected to out-perform the six-time champion at Melbourne Park, but he did believe he could compete. “If you don't think that you have a chance, then there is no...
World No. 117 Denis Istomin played the match of his life on Thursday when he sensationally beat six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic. The Uzbekistani wild card ended Djokovic’s 15-match winning streak at Melbourne Park with a 7-6(8), 5-7, 2-6, 7-6(5), 6-4 victory over almost five hours on Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. He will next play No. 30 seed Pablo Carreno Busta, who cruised past #NextGen ATP Kyle Edmund 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 in the third round. "It is unreal," said Istomin. "To beat Novak in five sets, it's a great win. I'm still feeling a little bit tired. I didn't expect to be doing what I'm doing now and what I did on the court. I like the way...
Aussie teen Omar Jasika will make his second straight appearance at the 2017 Australian Open after earning a main draw wild card on Sunday. The 19 year old, who won his first tour-level match at Melbourne Park last year, claimed the Wildcard Play-off with a 6-7(2), 6-2, 6-0, 6-4 win over John-Patrick Smith. Jasika completed an improbable run, having trailed by two sets and a break to Marinko Matosevic in the first round. "I’m happy to be in the Australian Open in 2017," said Jasika. "Looking forward to it. Last year was a great experience and one of the few days I won’t forget." Jasika joins fellow Tecnifibre player Denis Istomin in the main draw. The Uzbek, who owns a...