In a thrilling all-Australian clash at the 2024 US Open, Alex de Minaur emerged victorious against Jordan Thompson, securing his spot in the quarter-finals. The match, held at the iconic Louis Armstrong Stadium, showcased de Minaur’s resilience and skill as he overcame Thompson in a four-set battle. This victory marks de Minaur’s third consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final appearance, highlighting his consistent performance on the big stage.
De Minaur’s Dominance in the First Set
Alex de Minaur started the match with a commanding performance, taking the first set 6-0. His aggressive baseline play and exceptional foot speed left Thompson struggling to find his rhythm. De Minaur’s ability to track down every shot and return with precision was on full display, setting the tone for the rest of the match. Thompson, on the other hand, committed numerous unforced errors, which only added to his woes in the opening set.
Despite the one-sided scoreline, Thompson showed glimpses of his potential, hitting a few winners that drew applause from the crowd. However, de Minaur’s relentless pressure and consistency proved too much for Thompson to handle. The first set ended in just 28 minutes, with de Minaur firmly in control.
Thompson’s Fightback in the Second Set
The second set saw a remarkable turnaround as Jordan Thompson found his footing and began to challenge de Minaur. Thompson adopted a more aggressive approach, frequently coming to the net and putting pressure on de Minaur’s serve. This change in strategy paid off as Thompson took the second set 6-3, leveling the match and injecting new life into the contest.
Thompson’s improved performance was evident in his net play, winning 71% of his points at the net. His powerful groundstrokes and well-placed volleys kept de Minaur on the defensive. The crowd at Louis Armstrong Stadium was treated to some high-quality tennis as both players exchanged intense rallies. De Minaur, however, remained composed, knowing that he needed to regroup for the crucial third set.
De Minaur Seals the Victory
In the third set, Alex de Minaur regained his composure and showcased why he is considered one of the rising stars in tennis. He won 93% of his first-serve points and broke Thompson’s serve in the sixth game to take control of the set. De Minaur’s consistency from the baseline and ability to dictate play with his forehand were key factors in his success.
The fourth set was a rollercoaster, featuring five service breaks and intense rallies. De Minaur rallied from 1-3 down to eventually win the set 7-5, sealing his victory after two hours and 57 minutes of high-octane tennis. His ability to stay focused and maintain a positive mindset throughout the match was commendable.
De Minaur’s win over Thompson not only secured his place in the quarter-finals but also marked his 40th tour-level win of the year. He will now face British lefty Jack Draper in the next round, aiming to reach the semi-finals of a major for the first time in his career.
