Fritz Hands Team United States Early Lead In Perth

Taylor Fritz got Team United States off to a winning start on Friday morning against Team Norway at the inaugural ATP Cup in Perth.

The World No. 32 capitalised on early nerves from Viktor Durasovic of Team Norway for a 6-2, 6-2 victory over 62 minutes in Group D at the RAC Arena in Perth.

“I thought I played pretty well,” said Fritz. “I went out and I did everything that I told myself I needed to do: I made a lot of returns, played solid, take care of my serve. It was a pretty complete match.”

While Durasovic recovered from 0/40 in the opening game, Fritz soon broke for a 3-1 lead in the first set and saw a run of five straight games ended at 2-0 in the second set. Greater consistency proved to be the difference for Fritz, while No. 332-ranked Durasovic, who had played three Top 100 opponents in his career, rushed to end baseline rallies.

“There wasn’t too much frustration early on, because I didn’t do anything wrong. The first game he was 0/40 and hit some really good serves and shots. I knew I needed to keep coming up with chances, until he doesn’t come up with something on a break point.”

Durasovic admitted to nerves throughout, saying: “It was fun in one way, the whole atmosphere and playing on a nice court. But at the same time, I am disappointed as I wasn’t able to play at a level to compare myself. I definitely have mixed feelings. I was nervous from the beginning to the end.”

John Isner, the former No. 8 in the ATP Rankings, will now look to give Team United States an unassailable 2-0 lead against Team Norway when he faces Casper Ruud, who is coached by his father, Christian Ruud, in the second singles match.

The 24-team event is being played in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney from 3-12 January, with the Final Eight beginning on Thursday in Sydney.