TORONTO | Milos Raonic’s winning streak at the National Bank Open ended in the third round on Thursday. But the Canadian veteran will have reason to smile as he reflects on the three games in front of his home crowd. Because barely a year ago, this opportunity to perform again at his home in Toronto probably seemed like a mirage after nearly 14 months of not hitting a tennis ball.
Of course, Raonic would have preferred a win over that 6-3, 6-3 loss to American Mackenzie McDonald, 59th in the world, against whom he says he made “silly mistakes” (32 unforced). total errors).
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Against McDonald’s, the powerful server also struggled with his main weapon, which was off the menu on Thursday and lost speed as the encounter progressed.
“Missile Milos” was limited to nine aces, which was far from his standards, and he was guilty of six double faults, including two on break points at the end of the first set and the start of the second.
More ambitions
The former top three, who fell back to 545th place after two years of care-related injuries, want to correct that for the US Open at the end of August.
Because yes, at 32 years old and with only three tournaments in his body in two years, Raonic seems to have certain ambitions for this United States Open, no doubt inspired by his results in Toronto where he notably won the tenth game in the world. the American Frances Tiafoe.
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The Ontarioian naturally wants to play “one game at a time.” But he feels that he “can still play at a very high level, which isn’t much different” than a few years ago.
“[Je me sens] “I’m re-energized for a lot of things,” Raonic said of what he’s accomplished since returning. i like competition I like the preparation. I like the challenge. […] So the progress I’ve made [au fil des matchs] really motivate me.”
“Two years is a very long time”
The US Open is one thing. But the next National Bank Open in Toronto in two years is different.
So, Milos, was this tournament really an opportunity to say goodbye to the public that saw you growing up, or is there a chance you’ll be back here one day?
“You know, two years is a very long time,” Raonic replied. I was absent for two years… It makes you realize how much things can change in that time.
“[…] And maybe I won’t even know the answer in 12 months. I’d rather continue to think short-term,” he continued.
A sense of his efforts
However, one thing is for sure, the dose of love he received from his fans in those three games will be remembered.
Even if Raonic, when he left the seat and waved at them, didn’t really see these spectators standing. However, when he heard the sound, he felt that something special was happening in the stands.
“That means the most to me,” he agreed. This has made these three games the most special and valuable. I am extremely grateful for that.”
“[Recevoir cet amour fait en sorte] that the ups and downs that I have experienced in the last few months, in the last few years, will have been worth it.