Australian John Millman came close to making a comeback to win his quarterfinal match at the Sydney International against French Gilles Simon, but ended up falling 7-5 3-6 7-6(3). The match was supposed to be on Ken Rosewall Arena on Thursday night, but due to rain delays, it was moved to Showcourt 1, so that they could get a slightly earlier start. The match commenced at 10:51 pm and concluded at 1:33 am, not in favour of the Australian, despite that hopeful crowd.
Sydney, Australia – 10 January 2019: John Millman during a Sydney International singles quarterfinal match on court 1, Sydney Olympic Park. (Photo by Rob Keating/robiciatennis.com)
In the first set, Millman was broke once, but the Frenchman was able to break twice, giving him the lead. The Australian successfully saved two break points against him in the second set and broke once to give level the score at one set all.
Sydney, Australia – 10 January 2019: Gilles Simon of France during the third set in a Sydney International singles quarterfinal match on court 1, Sydney Olympic Park. (Photo by Rob Keating/robiciatennis.com)
In the third set, both men had more break point opportunities (Millman 7 and Simon 6), but both were only able to convert two. In the end, the score was on serve, as Millman failed to serve out the match when he was a break up at 6-5, eventually taking the third set to a tiebreak. Simon hit multiple good shots down the line, allowing him to take the edge in the tiebreak and advance to the semifinals.
Sydney, Australia – 10 January 2019: Gilles Simon hugs John Millman at the end of their Sydney International singles quarterfinal match on court 1, Sydney Olympic Park. The match ended at 1:33 am. (Photo by Rob Keating/robiciatennis.com)
In the semis, Simon will face top Australian, Alex de Minaur.
