Australian power-hitter Nick Kyrgios fired an incredible 25 aces yesterday to win the Japan Open, pounding Belgium's David Goffin 4-6, 6-3, 7-5
Nick Kyrgios of Australia (R) and runner-up Belgium's David Goffin (L) pose during the awards ceremony after the men's singles final at the ATP Japan Open tennis tournament in Tokyo. Pic/AFP
Nick Kyrgios of Australia (R) and runner-up Belgium's David Goffin (L) pose during the awards ceremony after the men's singles final at the ATP Japan Open tennis tournament in Tokyo. Pic/AFP
Tokyo: Australian power-hitter Nick Kyrgios fired an incredible 25 aces yesterday to win the Japan Open, pounding Belgium's David Goffin 4-6, 6-3, 7-5.
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Kyrgios rocketed serves clocking in at more than 220 kilometres (136 miles) per hour in quick succession, giving Goffin little time to regain his rhythm. Goffin used his quick footwork and long rallies to put pressure on his opponent, but Kyrgios' fearsome serves overwhelmed the World No.14.
The Australian also showed off some sharp ground strokes and saved 11 of 12 break points to lift the trophy. "I think my serves are what got me out of trouble," Kyrgios said. "David makes you feel like the court is small. It was a tough match. His (Goffin's) strength was returning. So I had to step up my serves a little bit especially in the second set," Kyrgios said.
Goffin said he faced an unending shower of cannon-like serves. "In the first set, he was not serving like he did in the second and third. I was on the ball in the first set," Goffin said. "I think, during the match, he had to serve well because I was doing rallies better," he said. "He served 215 (kilometres per hour) with a lot of precision. Even if you choose the right side, it's tough to return," Goffin added.
25
Number of aces hit by Kyrgios vs Goffin in the final
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