Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis have steam-rolled into the second round at the Miami Open.
World No.102 Kyrgios fired 12 aces in a 7-6(3) 6-3 victory against Frenchman Adrian Mannarino, with the Aussie wildcard not facing a breakpoint in the 92-minute encounter.
“It was a hell of a performance. Getting on late, it wasn’t easy. So I’m really proud of myself with the way I responded,” Kyrgios said. “I felt good, I competed well today against a tough opponent.”
Kyrgios’ victory sets up a second-round showdown with fifth seed Andrey Rublev.
“I’m going into that match as a complete underdog,” Kyrgios said. “But I feel confident. If I’m serving well and play well from the back, I can beat anyone.”
Kokkinakis was equally remarkable in a 6-4 6-2 victory against French veteran Richard Gasquet, striking 10 aces and not dropping serve in the 93-minute clash.
The 25-year-old Australian has now won three consecutive matches in Miami, after earning his place in the main draw through qualifying.
Kokkinakis next faces No.13 seed Diego Schwartzman of Argentina.
Next Up Men’s doubles, first round
[WC] Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS)/Nick Kyrgios (AUS) v Santiago Gonzalez (MEX)/Andres Molteni (ARG)
