By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
World no. 1 Nadal has been eliminated.
Vying to reach the 2020 Australian Open Finals for his 20th Grand Slam title, Rafael Nadal was halted in his quest by one of this generation’s emerging star, Austrian Dominic Thiem.
The 26-year old slugger took down the Spanish star in just four sets, 7-6, 7-6, 4-6, 7-6, to reach the Australian Open semifinals and set up a clash with another young star, Alexander Zverev.
Going into the match as the underdog, Thiem pulled-off one of his best professional career performances after outworking Nadal in the match.
Thiem engaged Nadal in an early slugfest at the baseline which surprised many, outdueling the Spanish in numerous exchanges.
Clinching three tiebreakers with the World no. 1 in sets 1, 3, and 4, the Austrian slugger put on a masterful display of tennis, especially against Nadal.
“If you want to have a chance against him, one of the all-time greats, everything needs to work in your game,” said Thiem.
