- British number 1 Cameron Norrie took on Casper Ruud in the third round
- Norrie defeated his opponent number 11 in the world in four sets 6-4 6-7 6-4 6-3
- Norrie is in the last 16 of the Australian Open for the first time in his career
Cameron Norrie reached the last 16 of the Australian Open after a stunning four-set victory over Casper Ruud.
The British No. 1 defeated his Norwegian opponent, a three-time Grand Slam semi-finalist, 6-4 6-7 (7-9) 6-4 6-3.
It is also the first time Norrie has ever reached the last 16 of the Australian Open and he had never before defeated world number 11 Ruud in a competitive encounter.
It was a brilliant performance from the 28-year-old, who also missed a set point during the second set tiebreak, before romping home to win the third and fourth.
Norrie remains the only British player still standing in Melbourne after a grueling clash that lasted more than three hours.
Cameron Norrie reached the last 16 of the Australian Open after beating Casper Ruud
The British number 1 defeated his Norwegian opponent – whom he has never beaten – in four sets
It was a strong performance from Norrie, who will play in the last 16 for the first time in his career
He celebrated emphatically after his victory and ran straight towards British supporters in the crowd, handing out towels to adoring fans.
Norrie said after his win: ‘Honestly it feels so special, especially on this track. I think I’ve only practiced on this track once.
“I didn’t know this court would have this atmosphere, so it feels so good.
“I had to play really big and Casper served well and fought hard and I didn’t really let it bother me.
‘I kept a very good level throughout and it was a good mental performance (from me) to come out with a lot of energy in the third set.
“So I really enjoyed it and stuck to my game plan and I got through it.” I worked really hard in the offseason to be a little more aggressive and I tried to open up today in the game.
“I volleyed really well, which helped me get through and finish a lot of points at the net.
‘I was just enjoying myself there and the crowd was great. There were all kinds of nicknames flying around. Someone said “come on Noz dog” and then “Noz” and stuff like that. Everyone had a good time, I think.
Norrie remains the last Briton standing in Melbourne and thanked supporters after his victory
Norrie was supported by a large British contingent at the John Cain Arena
“I saw that you had a drink on Saturday, so the atmosphere was good.”
Norrie will face either Alexander Zverev or Alex Michelsen in the next round and the Briton revealed he would be keeping an eye on their meeting later today.
“I have watched all the matches, so I will watch those too,” he added. ‘But I’m enjoying today and I’m going to train tomorrow.
‘I’m very happy to be through and what a great match. I’m just going to enjoy this now.’
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