Alex de Minaur is relieved to have finally advanced to the second round after a rain-delayed straight sets win over Andrea Guerrieri.
“These tournaments, it’s all about adapting and that’s the name of the game,” he said.
“There’s too much to play for to let something like this affect you, so I’m glad with the way I handled it. I’m glad I got in and out, played a relatively clean match, and now I can focus on the next one.”
The sixth-seeded Aussie will now take on the 70th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp on Friday (AEST).
Alex de Minaur gestures after he won his match. AP Photo/Seth Wenig
Because of the weather backlog, he would have to play his next three matches in three straight days if he keeps winning.
“It definitely helps to be able to get on the court, get off the court and in straight sets. Every little bit helps.” de Minaur said.
“Now I’m moving onwards, I’ll be ready for tomorrow. It should be a battle, a physical one. Because of the rain, there’s nothing you can do about it.
“You’ve just got to get out there, play your tennis match and, ultimately, if you win enough matches, you’re going to get out on the stadium court. So that’s the mindset.”
Karolína Muchová of the Czech Republic greets Katie Boulter of Britain. AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura
De Minaur also had the job of comforting his new wife, Katie Boulter, after she lost 6-1 6-0 to Wimbledon runner-up Karolína Muchová.
“Of course it’s difficult,” he said.
“Ultimately, we’ve got each other’s backs no matter what, and we’ve always got one eye out on each other.
“Obviously, it was a tough day for Katie and I had to do my best to just focus on my task ahead and get the job done in the best way possible, and I’m glad I was able to achieve that today.”