O’Connell was able to keep his composure, however, and seal a place in the last 16 against Jannik Sinner. His efforts in Miami even surprised Frances Tiafoe, who he beat 7-5, 7-6 (5) while a first-round win over Vit Kopriva ensured that the Sydney star has not lost a single set in his three matches.
Sinner will represent his toughest test yet though. The second seed overcame a big start from world No. 26 Tallon Griekspoor to advance to the fourth round with a 5-7, 7-5, 6-1 victory.
“I think even the first set was really close, but it went away,” said Sinner in his post-match interview. “I think mentally I tried to stay strong, which I did, and I was in a tough situation today. After the rain came, I tried to come back a bit more aggressive, which I did, and obviously I’m really happy. It’s been a tough day for me, but very happy about the result.”
