Cameron Norrie halts live TV interview and addresses crowd directly | Tennis | Sport
Cameron Norrie had to pause his television interview on more than one occasion following a gruelling round two victory over Emilio Nava at the Australian Open. The world No.27 – who is the last Brit remaining down under – booked his spot in round three courtesy of a 6-1, 7-6 (7-3), 4-6, 7-6 (7-5) win over the American.
By the time they returned to the court, momentum was with Norrie, who only needed around 10 minutes to get the job done. Keeping his nose out in front with a mini-break in the decider, Norrie edged his way into round three to a chorus of chants and songs in his favour.
The festivities continued after match point, with the sparse but loud crowd on court seven continuing to show their support. Visibly buoyed by the adoration, Norrie took some time to shake the hands of those who had helped him over the line, before giving his television interview.
Speaking on court to TNT Sports, Norrie explained: “The atmosphere is amazing. Atmosphere unreal, thank you guys for staying.” But any further comments had to wait for the crowd’s chanting to die down. Eventually getting the second part of his statement out, Norrie asked: “The big question, where’s the after party?”
Reflecting on his win, Norrie added: “It was nice to get the job done tonight. I just want to enjoy this result, I haven’t even looked ahead. He [someone in the crowd] backs me, so I’m feeling the confidence from him. The fans have to keep going [behind me].
“Credit to [Emilio] Nava, he was able to serve well and play really well when the crowd was so against him. I bet it wasn’t easy. I felt really relaxed coming out here. I was a bit tight on my groundstrokes, but I managed to get it done. It’s an amazing feeling, especially with everyone here and some friends in the crowd.”
It’s just the fourth time in his career that Norrie has reached the third round of the Australian Open. The 30-year-old will now take on Alexander Zverev in the third round, after the German defeated Alexandre Muller in round two.
