Isner's 'Surprise' Leads To Quick Start For United States Against Canada
John Isner made a quick start for the United States at the ATP Cup on Sunday when he defeated Canada’s Brayden Schnur 6-1, 6-4 in 66 minutes.
The American had to scramble at the last moment when he learned he would play Schnur instead of Shapovalov, who withdrew from the tie’s No. 2 singles match due to fatigue. But the 36-year-old took care of business with a comprehensive performance in which he saved the only break point he faced.
“I surprised myself with how well I played out here,” Isner said in his on-court interview. “You always work hard in the offseason, but you never really know what could happen in that first match of the year.”
Isner broke twice in the first set and used his booming serve to capitalise on the advantage. The American never looked back, hitting 10 aces and winning 46 per cent of his return points in his victory inside Qudos Bank Arena.
“I actually really like this court. It’s not too fast, which I prefer. It gives me a little time to swing out on my shots being so big. That helps me out a lot,” Isner said. “We’re off to a good start, hopefully we can keep this going.”
Did You Know?
This was Isner’s first win at the ATP Cup. Two years ago, he represented his country at the team event, but did not earn a victory.