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29 December 2022 | Tennis Australia
Cameron Norrie has ended Alex de Minaur’s hopes of a winning start for Australia at the United Cup, with the Brit claiming a 6-3 6-3 victory at Ken Rosewall Arena.
The world No.14 Norrie was calm under pressure before a passionate home crowd in Sydney, securing victory over the 23rd-ranked Australian in 90 minutes.
Withstanding early breakpoints against De Minaur, the left-handed Norrie utilised his backhand superbly to break and seize a 3-1 lead against the Australian. He maintained that lead to take the first set in 39 minutes.
The second set followed a similar pattern, Norrie gaining the upper hand with breaks in the fifth and final game.
“It’s never easy coming out here in Australia to play Alex de Minaur, he loves it – especially on this court,” said Norrie of the renowned team performer.
“He’s such a great competitor and it’s the perfect match to start off 2023.”
With strong support from team captain Tim Henman and his British team-mates, the 27-year-old noted the festive atmosphere in his inaugural United Cup match.
“The atmosphere was great,” said Norrie, who levelled his head-to-head record against De Minaur after losing to him at Barcelona last year. “It was a really good match. I really enjoyed it.”
Zoe Hives now faces Katie Swan in the women’s match for a chance to level the tie.
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