NEWS
Against Last Year's Finalist: Tagger is "More Than" Ready
After her commanding opening victory at the US Open, Lilli Tagger will face last year's finalist in the next round – and is brimming with confidence.
Lilli Tagger masterfully handled the first Grand Slam match of her career at the US Open. She defeated Tamara Korpatsch in straight sets (2-0).
With Tagger leading 6-0, 4-0 in the second set, the 18-year-old let up a little, and the German won five consecutive games. Tagger, however, took it in stride: "That's part of it, we are all human, and mistakes happen. The most important thing is to learn from them."
She said that at 6-0, 4-0, she started to overthink and see what would happen. "It was important then not to think about the score and to find a way."
Tagger Ready for Duel Against Last Year's Finalist
Amanda Anisimova awaits in the second round. The American reached the finals at Wimbledon and the US Open last year.
Tagger, who was accompanied to New York by her parents, will likely compete in a large stadium against the local favorite.
When asked if she was ready for this challenge, the East Tyrolean said: "More than ready."
Rodionov Reaches Second Round Only for the Second Time
The 27-year-old has reached the second round of a Grand Slam only for the second time in his career. He previously achieved this at the French Open in 2020.
"Tactically, I did exactly what I set out to do. I focused on my serve," explained Rodionov, who did not concede a single break. "It was crucial that I played my best tennis in the tie-breaks and remained very calm mentally."
