Sock advances to semi-finals in D.C

 

Originally published on 04/08/17 00:00

The 24-year-old showcased his athleticism and scrambling skills as he managed to break his opponent’s booming serve three times and secure a comfortable win.  

Sock won his first meeting with Raonic but then lost eight matches in a row to his higher ranked rival. The American snapped the losing streak in Shanghai last year, though, and he has backed that result up in D.C.

When asked why he is now beginning to enjoy greater success against Raonic, Sock said: “Getting some experience helps, for sure. Obviously he has played a lot more big matches than I have and he was on the tour a little bit before me. Over time I’ve now played a lot of big matches as well – and seeing that serve and that gamestyle a few more times helps.

“I was able to play a lot of good defensive points today and get through. If I can get that first ball back and scrap from the baseline, then I feel pretty comfortable, so I was just trying to neutralise as best as possible.

The No.8 seed will play Kevin Anderson on Saturday. The uncompromising South African defeated Yuki Bhambri 6-4 4-6 6-3 to end the the Indian's dream run at the quarter-final stage.

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