Cameron Norrie
Cameron Norrie

US Open: Briton Cameron Norries qualifies in New York


Briton Cameron Norrie booked his place in the main draw of the US Open with a 6-1 7-6 (7/5) victory over Japan's Go Soeda.

Norrie only turned professional earlier this year but has made swift strides, earning his place in qualifying at Flushing Meadows with his first title on the second tier Challenger Tour.

The British number five, ranked 226, had never played in grand slam qualifying before but did not drop a set in three matches, beating Alexander Bublik, Sekou Bangoura and then Soeda.

The 22-year-old joins compatriots Andy Murray, Kyle Edmund, Aljaz Bedene, Johanna Konta and Heather Watson in the main draw.

Norrie made his grand slam debut at Wimbledon, losing in the first round to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

Norrie revealed channelling thoughts of Andre Agassi helped him maintain his focus throughout the three rounds.

He said: "I'm stoked. I've been working real hard on my routines in between points and I feel real focused and I'm playing every point, competing really well, so I'm really happy.

"My coach Devin (Bowen) wanted me to emulate Agassi, how he's always looking at his strings, and I think it's helped me a lot because before I was constantly looking around and looking at the other courts and losing focus."

Norrie was particularly proud to have earned his place in the draw by right rather than through a wild card.

"It feels a lot better and I'm a lot more comfortable on the hardcourts," he said. "I have earned it and I feel a lot more confident going into this week than I did into Wimbledon. I feel in good shape to do well."

Norrie gave his backing to the two big innovations being trialled in qualifying - on-court coaching and a clock to show time taken between serves.

Players are allowed to talk to their coaches during matches on the WTA circuit but this is the first time it has been permitted for the men - although it is an open secret that communication goes on.

Norrie used it sparingly, saying: "I was a little bit nervous and I asked my coach Facu (Lugones) where to serve, but I don't think it changed too much.

"I think it's a good rule, I like it. I feel it's not even a big deal because some of the coaches give signals anyway. And I also liked the new time rule. It's nice for me because I play quick. I like knowing the rule's really in place."

Neither innovation will be used during the main tournament.

There was no joy for the British players in the final round of the women's event.

Youngster Katie Boulter blew a one-set lead as she lost 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 6-2 to Ipek Soylu, of Turkey, while British number three Naomi Broady was beaten 6-4 4-6 6-2 by home hope Nicole Gibbs.

Related links

Men's draw: Murray avoids Federer & Nadal
Women's draw: Sharapova to face Halep in R1
US Open: Tournament guide
Sharapova book competition - enter now!

Like what you've read?

MOST READ

Join for Free
Image of stables faded in a gold gradientGet exclusive Willie Mullins insight, plus access to premium articles, expert tips and Timeform data, plus more...
Log in
Discover Sporting Life Plus benefitsWhite Chevron
Sporting Life Plus Logo

Next Off

Fixtures & Results

Fetching latest games....