Tomic to face Murray test
Bernard Tomic has set up a fourth-round meeting with No.2 seed after downing compatriot John Millman at the Australian Open
Melbourne VIC, Australia, 24 January 2016 | AAP
Bernard Tomic will adopt the mantra “anything is possible” as he prepares for a fourth-round Australian Open clash with Andy Murray.
Tomic dispatched compatriot John Millman in straight sets in the third round, already equalling his best ever finish at Melbourne Park.
The 23-year-old, who burst onto scene when he reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals in 2011, next faces Murray.
Tomic has lost all three of his previous clashes with Murray, the most recent coming in last year’s Davis Cup semi-final at Glasgow.
“I have to go out there believing I can win … and serve the way I’ve been serving,” Tomic said.
“Anything is possible now in this position.
“I’m playing well. I feel so confident. On my day I can beat anyone.
“I’ve beaten good players the last few months.
“I need to … really take it to him.
“He’s one of the best players in the world.”
Tomic, the only Australian remaining in the men’s draw, was expected to account for world No.95 Millman on Rod Laver Arena.
That is how the match transpired, but Tomic’s 6-4 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 victory was no walk in Melbourne Park.
The tussle wrapped up at 12.33am on Sunday morning.
Millman’s dogged determination in the highlight of his career, a grinding battle that lasted two hours and eight minutes.
“I’m not the best at long rallies … it was difficult at times. I had to rely on my serve and I felt like I served well tonight,” Tomic said.
“I knew it was going to be tough … he was going to make a lot of balls.
“I had to change my game.”
What Millman lacked in power and aces he made up for in persistence and pace.
The greatest example was the second set, which lasted a tick under an hour.
Millman was broken to love in the opening service game of the set but refused to go quietly.
The 26-year-old forced a tiebreaker, only for Tomic to take a 4-0 lead after a pair of aces.
Tomic sent down 20 aces in the match and was far too dominant on serve.