Nick Kyrgios has powered into the US Open third round, producing an ominous display to comprehensively beat French qualifier Antoine Hoang in straight sets.
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The 24-year-old Australian sent down a barrage of aces in the 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 victory in nearly two hours on court, sending the two-time major quarter-time finalist into the round of 32 at Flushing Meadows for a third time and with a minimum of fuss.
It was a strong performance from the Australian and, more significantly, largely without drama or incident after his hardcourt swing season in America has been overshadowed by controversy, including an on-court meltdown in Cincinnati that cost him $US113,000 after he was hit with several fines.
Kyrgios was sharp throughout and the result was never in doubt.
"It was no easy opponent. He had obvious beaten a quality opponent in the first round, so I knew it was going to be tough," Kyrgios said on-court.
Asked about his application to preparing himself physically, Kyrgios said the US Open was one of his favourite tournaments.
"New York has a fair few distractions, so I am trying to stay awake from that. I want to really try and strap in and do well this week. I am just trying to stay focused," he said.
After the chair umpire appeared to tell Kyrgios that the collar was a breach of attire rules, it infuriated the 28th seed.
The court supervisor then came onto the court to deal with the situation.
"I'm not going to play until I see the rule," Kyrgios said, repeatedly claiming he would not start the match.
But, after a brief discussion, the match began without delay.
On Wednesday this week, Kyrgios back-tracked from his claims that the governing body of men's tennis is corrupt - made in the aftermath of his first-round victory - as the Association of Tennis Professionals launched an inquiry with the threat of suspension still hovering over him.
SMH/The Age
