David Ferrer is set to retire from professional tennis in May but the Spaniard showed he still has the tools to bring down the biggest names in the game after a stunning 2-6 7-5 6-3 win over world No. 3 Alexander Zverev at the Miami Open on Saturday.

The victory clearly meant a lot to the 36-year-old, who will bring the curtain down on his career at the Madrid Open.

“It’s a special day because it’s the last year of professional tennis for me. Winning these type of matches against a top 10 player like ‘Sascha’ is a gift,” he said.

“I’m very happy and I’m trying to enjoy every point and every moment.”

Ferrer will next face 21-year-old American Frances Tiafoe who fought past Miomir Kecmanovic 7-6(6) 7-6(5).

ANDERSON FEELING GOOD

Earlier on Saturday, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson made a winning return to competition with a 6-4 3-6 6-3 victory over rising Spaniard Jaume Munar. After more than two months away from the court with an elbow injury, the world number seven smashed 17 aces en route to the second round win over the 21-year-old Munar.

It was Anderson’s first tournament appearance since the Australian Open in January and he said he was happy with the way his elbow felt.

“To get through in three sets, it felt really good to be back out there. I’m happy with how the elbow responded. I feel like I’m hitting the ball great,” the sixth seed added.

Kevin Anderson, of South Africa, returns a volley to Jaume Lunar, of Spain. ( AP )

Two Russian prospects, Karen Khachanov and Daniil Medvedev, had different fates on Saturday.

The 10th seed Khachanov was beaten by Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2 6-3 while his friend Medvedev, the 13th seed, toppled France’s Adrian Mannarino 6-2 6-1.

Eighth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6(4) 6-1.

In other early action, Belgian David Goffin, the 18th seed, defeated Spaniard Pablo Andujar 6-4 6-1, while Canadian 20th seed Denis Shapovalov came from a set down to beat Britain’s Dan Evans 4-6 6-1 6-3.

First Published: Mar 24, 2019 16:08 IST