Don’t make me cry

Originally published on 30/08/17 00:00

The Argentinian produced a solid display today as he defeated Henri Laaksonen 6-4 7-6(3) 7-6(5). He hit 16 aces, won 83% of his first serve points and thumped 32 winners.

“I think I play very smart in the important moments,” said Del Potro. “I served good, my forehand is improving and this is a good signal for my game.”

Del Potro has undergone three operations on his wrist during his career but New York often brings out the best in his him. Last year, he became the lowest ranked player to reach the last eight since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

The Argentinian arrived in the Big Apple ranked No.28 despite having a mixed season. He missed the Australian Open due to fitness issues and withdrew from Queen’s with a groin injury.

The 6’6” right-hander reached the quarter-finals at the Rome Masters in May and made the third round at Roland Garros. Most recently he lost out at the third round stage of Cincinnati to Grigor Dimitrov.

“It’s like a dream to come back and play in this stadium because the best memories of my career are playing matches here,” he said. "It is so nice for me, after all my injuries, to come back and keep playing tennis in front of you. Please don’t make me cry this year.”

If he is to progress deep into the tournament, he will need to find his form against the top players – this year he is 0-6 against the Top 6.

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