Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime will meet American giant John Isner in the third round of the Miami Masters after beating Pierre-Hughes Herbert 6-4, 6-4 in a controversial match overnight.
Herbert had a running battle with the chair umpire because he felt he had pushed the time clock too early and wasn’t given enough time to prepare to serve, something Auger Aliassime believe may have contributed to his defeat.
“He was frustrated because having time he complained, I also thought that was pretty short break especially at a ball change but it’s the rules of course we both have to respect,” Auger Aliassime said.
“I got a time violation in doubles yesterday, it’s something that happens, nobody is perfect maybe pressed too early but it is what it is but I do think it’s tough to be at the net, go get your towel and than get ready for your serve within 25 seconds.”
The Frenchman got off to a good start before his Canadian opponent took control at 4-4. A forehand shot eventually won the set.
Herbert stuck at it in the second and like the first set, it was 4-4 before Auger Aliassime took two break points then a superb forehand return to win the match.
“It’s always good when you win it,” Auger Aliassime said.
“Sometimes draws are not always easy, some are easier than others but then again at this level every match you have to earn and again today was a tough opponent that I know has good weapons in his game, had to be ready for his best tennis and after a win like this it gets me well into the tournament with a match that had high intensity, high focus, it’s a good way to start for sure.”
Isner earlier won the all-American clash against Mackenzie McDonald 2-6 6-3 7-5.
