‘It wasn't pretty', but de Minaur seals top-10 return and a place in Washington final
The Australian, known for his relentless court coverage, walked out on Sunday (AEST) carrying two extra pairs of blue Asics shoes in a none-too-subtle message that he was ready to rumble in oppressive conditions in the United States capital.
De Minaur overcame an error-filled start, particularly on his usually sturdy backhand, to march past Moutet 6-4, 6-3 to make the Washington final for the second time and ensure he will return to the top 10 on Monday.
He finished with an undesirable ratio of 20 winners against 33 unforced errors, but went up a notch in the second set and was outstanding at the net, where he won 17 of 22 points with some spectacular volleying.
It was de Minaur's tour-leading 21st hardcourt victory this year as he bids to become the first Australian winner at the ATP 500 tournament since Nick Kyrgios in 2019 and 2022. He will also try to capture his 10th ATP Tour title and extend his streak of winning at least one to a fifth straight year.
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'I knew going in it was never going to be pretty, so I had the mindset that I just had to get the job done, whichever way possible,' de Minaur told this masthead.
'It's complicated playing against him. He takes all the rhythm away from you, and ultimately, his game style is exactly that – to make the match as ugly as possible.
'I'm very excited to be in another final here, and in a great mindset, so regardless of what happens tomorrow, I'll take this as a very positive week for me and use it as a springboard for the rest of the US Open summer.'
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