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Rafael Nadal Australian Open 2021
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‘To beat Rafael Nadal is something very special,’ says Lloyd Harris


South African star Lloyd Harris picked up the biggest win of his life as he ousted Rafael Nadal at the Citi Open on Wednesday. 

The 24-year-old beat the returning Rafael Nadal 6-4 1-6 6-4 to progress to the third round in two hours and 11 minutes.

The big-serving South African, who had beaten the likes of Dominic Thiem and Stan Wawrinka already this year, added the 20-time Major champion to his list in impressive fashion.

“Today was really special. I think I have had some big wins, and this year I have beat some Grand Slam champions,” Harris said.

“But to beat a 20-time Grand Slam champion, and especially in front of a full crowd and with such an amazing atmosphere, it was definitely something very special.”

“I did a lot of good things. I think the best thing was to stay in the moment, keep my composure, and I think I just stayed with my game and stayed playing a consistently good level throughout the match.

“It was a good, quality match, I think. Not easy for me out there. It was pretty physical, but all in all, I’m just super happy with how everything turned out.”

The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who provided a positive injury update following his defeat, praised the 24-year-old for his ‘brave’ play.

“All the credit to him that he played aggressive,” he said. “He played well. He was brave. So, well done,” said the Spaniard.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.