The beautiful story continues.
Winner to everyone's surprise over Holger Rune in the 2nd round of the Australian Open a little earlier in the week, Arthur Cazaux confirmed this Saturday in Melbourne.
In demonstration against Tallon Griekspoor (6-3, 6-3, 6-1 in 1h46), the young 21-year-old Frenchman impressed with his serenity.
“I approached the match very well.
I served very well, returned very well.
It helped me take the advantage very early, to be released, he explained at a press conference.
I did not want to let my opponent lead the game, because I knew that in the physical fight I would be better than him,” revealed the Montpellier resident, while admitting that the score seemed “severe” to him.
“The first two sets, we still had to go for them, there were some very tight games.
I'm very happy to have come through in three sets and not to have lost too much energy today.
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More than a confirmation, a demonstration:
The #AusOpen can be followed exclusively on Eurosport: https://t.co/DEwtaK6crC #HomeOfTennis pic .twitter.com/m8xNds15lU
— Eurosport France (@Eurosport_FR) January 20, 2024
A true revelation of the tournament in Melbourne, Cazaux, guaranteed to enter the top 100 at the end of the fortnight, has enchanted French tennis fans since the start of the Australian Grand Slam.
Questioned on the Eurosport set after their success, the Habs remained calm.
“I beat my first top 10 two days ago (Rune), I felt that in the media, things were getting heated as we usually do in France.
But I stayed true to what I know how to do.
I'm the same as I was a month ago, or last year, when I played Challengers.
I did not change.
I have a good entourage.
I avoid listening to what is going on around me, I stay focused on my tournament.
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“I remain true to my values”
Third youngest Frenchman in the Open Era to qualify for the second week in Australia, the Hérault resident “set no limits”.
“I knew I could play at this level, but proving it gave me more confidence.
Now I know I can beat this kind of player.
In matches, I feel the pressure, but I have progressed a lot in this sector recently.
I work well mentally, I have the right attitude.
I stay true to my values and what needs to happen will happen.
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Ready to challenge Hubert Hurkacz in the round of 16 on Monday, Cazaux is not afraid of the idea of challenging one of the biggest servers on the circuit, the winner of his compatriot Ugo Humbert.
“I've already played some big servers.
I know I'm going to take aces, but I'll be ready for that.
He's going to crash into me.
He's been playing very well for a few years, he's settled in the top 10. It's going to be a big fight, I'm looking forward to it.
I'm ready for this kind of challenge.
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