American No.1 John Isner will always remember his first match against Novak Djokovic at this year’s ATP Finals, but not for the reason many would expect.
On Monday the world No.10 bowed out in straight sets to the top seed, but just hours after the match he was told about the shock death of his close friend Kyle Morgan. Morgan, who was a former Florida football player, once trained and lived with Isner. The 35-year-old had been reported missing by his family before his death was confirmed on Monday.
“I Found out two nights ago after I lost to Novak.” An emotional Isner said during his press conference on Wednesday. “It’s difficult, very difficult. But I got to go out there and play.”
Prior to his clash with Marin Cilic at the O2 Arena, Isner posted a heartfelt tribute to his friend. They two trained together over a seven-year period. Morgan was last seen in the Tampa area before his disappearance. There has been no official confirmation concerning the cause of death.
“When I left college, I worked out exclusively with Kyle for probably seven years. Four, five times a week for seven years. We lived together, as well.” Explained Isner.
“ We were certainly very close. It’s devastating not just for me, but for a whole bunch of people. He was a fantastic guy.”
During his match against Cilic, which the American lost in three sets, Isner wrote the initials KM on his shoes in tribute to his friend.
Isner will take on Alexander Zverev in his final round-robin match at the ATP Finals on Friday. Despite two loses, the 33-year-old still has a chance of qualifying for the semifinals. In his group, Novak Djokovic is the only player to have already secured his place in the last four.
“It’s very weird, to think I’ve lost twice but still have a shot. I guess that’s the advantage of having a guy like Novak in your group.” The Wimbledon semi-finalist admits.
“I guess I have an objective, for sure. We’ll see if I can do it. It’s going to be very tough, no doubt.”
Isner trails Zverev 1-4 in their head-to-head but has defeated him earlier this year in Miami.
