Melbourne, Jan. 23 -- Australia's Alex de Minaur produced a commanding performance to defeat American Frances Tiafoe 6-3, 6-4, 7-5 in the third round of the Australian Open on Friday night, booking his place in the second week of his home Grand Slam for the fifth consecutive year.
The world No.6 held his nerve in key moments and dominated long stretches of the match, finishing in two hours and 43 minutes on Rod Laver Arena amid strong home support.
With the win, De Minaur became only the second Australian man in the Open Era, after John Newcombe, to reach the fourth round of the Australian Open in five straight years - a milestone achieved nearly five decades ago by Newcombe.
De Minaur struck 31 winners and repeatedly showcased his speed...