Title Run Gives Sock Renewed Belief In Miami

Jack Sock readily admits his singles results in his first three months of 2018 aren’t quite living up to lofty expectations, considering the blistering run in which he finished last season. But the American No. 1 in the ATP Rankings may have found the spark to rediscover that form at the Miami Open presented by Itau.

Despite a third-round exit to Feliciano Lopez in singles in Indian Wells, Sock teamed with good friend John Isner to claim their second title together on Sunday. The American duo downed countrymen Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan for the title and did not drop a set in four matches, becoming just the third duo to do so in the past 30 years.

“I think there’s a lot of truth to that for sure,” Sock said of doubles title boosting his confidence in singles. “I think it showed in the past in my career to play doubles when it fits my schedule, especially when you play with friends like that.

“This year has been pretty atrocious to me so far in singles but I’ve done the things I’ve needed to. I took the month off after Melbourne and got myself in the right playing shape and the right frame of mind.”

Sock reached the quarter-finals in Miami last year (l. to Nadal) having reached the semi-finals in Indian Wells the week prior (l. to Wawrinka). While he fell short of defending those Indian Wells points last week, Sock said he would draw on his doubles title and regroup to be ready for his fifth main draw appearance in Miami.

“Last week, I had a solid first round and then played Feliciano [Lopez] who played, I think he said, one of his best matches he can remember in a while. That’s tennis it can happen,” Sock said. “Anytime you’re playing for a trophy and another title can only help the confidence.”