Thompson upsets Tsitsipas in Indian Wells boilover
Australia's Jordan Thompson caused an upset for the ages , beating world No.3 Stefanos Tsitsipas 7-6 (7-0) 4-6 7-6 (7-5) at Indian Wells.
"It's unreal. At a Masters 1000, in the [Indian Wells] Tennis Garden here," Thompson said after the win.
"It’s one of my favourite tournaments, I think a lot of players' favourite tournaments to play. To have a win like that is incredible. [I'm] really happy."
The Australian dropped just two points on serve en route to the opening set in California, where Tsitsipas struggled to find his best level in the early stages.
Although the Greek rallied to level the match and earned a mini-break on the first point of the deciding-set tie-break, it was Thompson who held his nerve for a stunning two-hour, 37-minute victory.
"I wanted to take control of my service points," the 28-year-old said. "Obviously, I can't do much about his, he's a big guy and he's got a great serve. I wasn't finding too much rhythm there on return towards the end but snuck one out. I stayed aggressive on serve and very thankful that last ball went wide."
Thompson, who defeated Gael Monfils in straight sets in his opening match, is now into the third round in Indian Wells for the first time.
His opponent there will qualifier Alejandro Tabilo, who caused an upset of his own to beat No.32 seed Maxime Cressy 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (13-11).
"I haven’t even actually looked forward [in the draw]," Thompson said. "I just saw my match today. I had a tough one in the first round as well, strange match with Monfils coming back [from injury]. It's been a tricky draw but I haven't actually looked forward."
