World No.6 Kevin Anderson is on the brink of becoming the first African player to reach the last four of the ATP Finals after crushing an erratic Kei Nishikori 6-0,6-1, at The O2 Arena.
The two players have been somewhat accustomed to facing each other on the tour. In 2018 they have locked horns four times, of which three was within the past two months (counting today’s match). Overall Nishikori leads their head-to-head 6-3.
Despite the talent of the two players, who are both ranked inside the world’s top 10, the match was a one-way streak in Anderson favor. The 32-year-old was dominant throughout the match against a weary Nishikori, who produced 24 unforced errors. In comparison, Anderson dropped only eight points behind his serve and produced a total of 15 winners.
“It’s one of the best (matches) I’ve ever played.” Said Anderson. “I knew I had to play a really good match against Kei. He’s a world class player and you are taking each game one at a time.”
“I found a great rhythm from the start and I was able to maintain the pressure throughout the whole match.”
Only the second player to bagel Nishikori on the tour this year after Dominic Thiem, Anderson’s power and resilience drew mistake after mistake from his rival. Grabbing the double break with the help of a Nishikori forehand error on both occasions. It wasn’t until the sixth game that the Japanese player showed a glimmer of his talent by saving two set points. Nevertheless, Anderson prevailed on his third chance with the help of a lucky net cord.
Unbelievably it wasn’t until the 11th game of the match when Nishikori got onto the scoreboard. Ironically drawing one of the loudest cheers from the London crowd in the entire match. Unfortunately for him, the damage was already done as Anderson closed the match out with the help of another dominant service game.
Anderson is now on the verge of qualifying for the semi-finals of the tournament following his win over Dominic Thiem on Sunday. He could secure the position later tonight if Thiem defeats Roger Federer or Federer defeats Thiem in three sets.
As a result of his latest victory, Anderson has claimed 47 wins on the tour this season. Making it a new career-high for the South African, who previous best of 46 was first set in 2015.
In ATP Finals history Federer holds the record for the most dominant win with a 6-0, 6-0, victory over Gaston Gaudio in 2005.
