Frances Tiafoe expects a tough match against Alex de Minaur, but welcomes the challenge and the atmosphere of Rod Laver Arena. “It’s earlier than both of us would like [to play each other], but I’m happy to play against him. it’s going to be fun, against all these fans,” Tiafoe said. ”I love playing on the big courts, and now is when the event really gets going. [There are] only tough and good matches ahead, and you have to rise to the occasion. He’s going to come for me; I’m going to come for him. Tennis is going to get their money’s worth.”
Tiafoe, coached by Australian Mark Kovacs, advanced after defeating Francisco Comesana in four sets. He’s a 2019 Open quarterfinalist and dual major semifinalist.
De Minaur leads their head-to-head record 3-1, including a close three-set victory in Toronto last year. The Australian No. 1 acknowledged Tiafoe’s danger. “Frances is super risky. He’s playing well, got a lot of firepower [and] he’s a veteran,” de Minaur said. “We’ve had some battles in the past. I wouldn’t expect anything other than an absolute battle against him. He seems to be locked in.”
De Minaur overcame a strong start from Hamad Medjedovic,relying on defense and mental fortitude to win. Medjedovic, 22, is considered a potential successor to Novak Djokovic for Serbia, but lacked the same resilience. De Minaur scrambled and defended effectively, ultimately proving to tough for his opponent.
