ROGER FEDERER AND Rafael Nadal came together as a doubles pair for the first time to help Europe into a 9-3 lead over the World team on the second day of the Laver Cup in Prague.
The pair, who boast 35 grand slam titles between them, required a tie-break to beat American duo Jack Sock and Sam Querrey and claim two precious points for their team.
Federer and Nadal had won the opening set 6-4, before their less illustrious opponents comfortably secured the second 6-1.
The Swiss and Spaniard’s experience came to the fore in the tie-break, though, as they prevailed 10-5.
Earlier in the day Nadal had also needed a tie-break to edge past Sock 6-3 3-6 11-9 in their thrilling singles rubber. Nadal’s 50 per cent win rate on his second serve was decisive, with Sock only able to register 18 per cent.
Federer enjoyed a more routine triumph over Querrey in their encounter as he breezed past this year’s Wimbledon semi-finalist 6-4 6-2.
The World team’s only points of the day came courtesy of Nick Kyrgios, who faced a tough – and sometimes tempestuous battle – against home favourite Tomas Berdych.
Kyrgios defeated the Czech 6-4 6-7 (7-4) 10-6, but the match will likely remembered for another outburst from the 22-year-old Australian towards the umpire.
Sunday marks the final day of the inaugural tournament, with the reward for wins rising from two to three points.
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Good man
Some player in his day. Was an outstanding kicker and playmaker and was a big hitter too to top it off. Was probably why he was injured so much.
Common in a lot of sportspeople with that all or nothing mentality. When they reach their lofty goals they’re left with an empty feeling. Good to hear he’s in a better place now.
Could be absolutely metronomic in his kicking. Class player. Good, honest piece!
In the words of Kevin Bridges “Did ye aye?”
I really feel for American college football players. Washed up at what, 22?
As a Irish man what a player and golden era of England 2000/2003 used to love watching England and copying Jonny Wilkinson kick technique.
Class player.
Probably just hungry
Paradise Syndrome.
As a Irish what a player and golden era of England 2000/2003 used to love watching England and copying Jonny Wilkinson kick technique.
@Mícheál Moran: his performance against Ireland in the 6N in 2003 was unreal . Ireland hammered him , he went off for treatment four times , each time he moved further and further back and cut ireland apart , dropping goals etc . Bracken the same that day . The both of them were smashed time after time and brushed it off . Then to think that JW played the whole 2003 RWC final with a broken collarbone . An awesome competitor .