He vowed to “avenge” Novak Djokovic’s deportation and Miomir Kecmanovic is living up to that pledge and then some with a career best Grand Slam run at the Australian Open.
World No.77 Kecmanovic was drawn to play Serbian Davis Cup teammate and idol Djokovic in the first round in Melbourne before the superstar was unceremoniously kicked out of the country on the eve of the tournament.
Djokovic was replaced in the draw by ‘lucky loser’ Salvatore Caruso and Kecmanovic has made the most of that almighty break by peeling off three straight wins and advancing to the round of 16.
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His 6-4 6-7 (8-10) 6-2 7-5 third round win over 25th seed Lorenzo Sonego today means Kecmanovic will pocket at least $328,000 in prize money instead of the $103,000 he would have if Djokovic beat him.
“It’s unbelievable,” Kecmanovic told reporters after beating the Italian.
“A week ago I was supposed to play the world No.1 and didn’t have much of a chance there, but now I’m in the last 16, so I’m happy that I was able to use this chance and that I’ve been playing some really good tennis.”
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This is the 22-year-old’s 12th Grand Slam appearance but the first time he has made it past the second round.
Kecmanovic said dodging Djokovic had changed his mindset on court.
“I didn’t have much pressure just because I felt that I got a second chance, so I just wanted to use it the best that I can.
“I’ve obviously been showing that well up until now.”
Kecmanovic had “not really” had any contact with Djokovic since he left Australia.
“You know, I think he’s still recovering from everything, and I didn’t really want to bother him, give him his space,” he said.
“I’ll definitely talk to him eventually after things calm down.”
Kecmanovic will play French showman Gael Monfils in the round of 16.
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