Fan Fav Gasquet Into French Open Quarters After Win Over Nishikori
Hometown favorite Richard Gasquet upset the fifth-seeded Kei Nishikori on Sunday, 6-4, 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 to move into the French Open quarterfinals. Gasquet had lost in the Round of 16 at Roland Garros four times previously (2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015), but found success Sunday to advance to face Andy Murray, a winner Sunday over American John Isner, 7-6(9), 6-4, 6-3.
Gasquet came into the match with a 6-2 lifetime advantage over Nishikori, who was trying to reach the final eight for the second consecutive year in Paris.
“I knew if I want to win, I need to play very, very deep and very fast,” said Gasquet. “If I'm playing short like I did in Rome and Madrid, I have no chance to win. You also need to be able to whack the ball from the baseline, and that's what I tried to do. It's always important to have the crowd cheering for you, as they did it on the court, and I admit it made a big difference for me. Of course it will be the same on Tuesday, but for sure I need to play a big match to win against Andy.”
Murray, who remains flawless over Isner in his career, capturing his sixth win over the American Sunday.
"I'm pumped to be in the quarters of a Slam," said Murray. "Obviously the atmosphere will be tough, but I don't mind that. I played a number of times against French players here in difficult atmospheres and I managed okay."
Murray extended his winning streak to nine matches after winning the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 event in Rome two weeks ago.
