Miami Open 2018: Thanasi Kokkinakis reveals moment he knew he could beat Roger Federer
THANASI KOKKINAKIS has revealed the moment he knew he could beat Roger Federer in Miami.
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Kokkinakis produced a sublime display as he stunned Federer in their second round clash at Crandon Park.
The 21-year-old, who was facing the Swiss legend for the first time in his career, came from a set down to win in three pulsating sets and took the decider on a tie-breaker.
The victory ensured Federer will cede his world No 1 spot when the latest rankings are published in two weeks.
Kokkinakis’ victory also meant he was the lowest ranked player (175) in 15 years to knock out the world No 1.
When asked about whether he thought he had an inkling he could win, Kokkinakis told ATP World Tour: “Well I didn’t put pressure on him.
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When I feel like I’m playing on my terms, there’s not too many people who can go with me
“I didn’t keep any scoreboard pressure.
“I know he’s an unbelievable frontrunner.
“In the second set, I used a couple of loose errors.
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“I started getting in the rallies a bit more and dictating with my forehand.
“When I feel like I’m playing on my terms, there’s not too many people who can go with me.
“I just needed to play my game and play aggressive tennis.”