Jack Sock survived a marathon encounter in his opening match at the Dallas Open on Monday evening.
The American, who had the backing of a partisan American crowd, saved an incredible 15 of the 18 break points that he faced, eventually battling to a 7-6(2), 4-6, 6-4 win after three hours and four minutes of a tumultuous match.
His reward for the mammoth win against the Belarusian big-hitter is a second round encounter with fellow American and good friend, Taylor Fritz.
That’s why I put in the work right there the past few months. For anybody that follows [me] obviously I didn’t go down to Australia, so I did about a three-month off-season to get my body right, get everything dialled in and give this sport another good run.
I’ve had a tough couple years and it’s been fun grinding my way back. These matches are what makes it worth it to keep going and this one feels great. I’m excited to move on.
Sock, a wildcard in Texas this week, had squandered an early break in the deciding set, allowing Ivashka to level at 3-3. However, the American regained his composure to break again and take the third set and the match.
Sock looked notably fitter than he has done in recent years during his opening match of the season. It appears the hard work he's put in physically has paid off.
However, the challenges only get tougher for the American from here on in as he takes on the top seed Taylor Fritz next. The pair met each other at last year's Dallas Open, with Fritz winning in straight sets.
Sock will be hoping for a much closer-fought battle this time around.
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