Cameron Norrie produced one of the biggest shocks in Davis Cup history after defeating world number 23 Roberto Bautista Agut from 2 sets to love down, 4-6 3-6 6-3 6-2 6-2.
The first two sets were relatively easy for the Spaniard despite falling 4-1 down to his opponent, who is ranked 114 in the world. Once Bautista Agut recover he grinded with some stunning shots and started to take control of the match as he won the majority of baseline rallies. The world number 23 won seven games in a row to race into a 6-4 3-0 lead. The Spaniard continued to play some flawless tennis as he wrapped up the second set in 42 minutes.
However things would take a turn for the worst as his level would drop and Norrie would start to mix things up. The Brit would use some insane drop shots to secure a fifth break of the set at 5-3. A composed Norrie sealed the third set and would only get stronger as the match progressed. The match would get physical which suited the Brit as he won most of the long games and took advantage of an injured Bautista Agut. The Brit broke in consecutive games to force a deciding set.
The world number 114 was clearly motivated and continued to wear out a physically exhausted Bautista Agut as he grabbed a crucial break in the third game. The Spaniard had nothing as he looked over Sergi Bruguera for guidance and motivation. However this was no help as Norrie broke again and clinched the match on his first match point to seal a historic victory for Great Britain. This was another example of Leon Smith’s great work as Davis Cup captain as Norrie pulled off a major upset to level the tie.
Earlier in the day, Albert Ramos-Vinolas overcame a stubborn Liam Broady to give the home crowd something to cheer about. The Spaniard broke five times as he secured a 6-3 6-4 7-6(6) win over the world number 165.
Tomorrow’s doubles tie will see Pablo Carreno Busta and Feliciano Lopez will play Jamie Murray and Dominic Inglot in an evenly contested match.
