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Popyrin fights for win, Duckworth bows out

3 minute read

Alexei Popyrin is through to the round of 64 at the BNP Parabas Open in Indian Wells, but compatriot James Duckworth has bowed out of the ATP event.

ALEXEI POPYRIN of Australia plays a backhand during the French Open at Roland Garros in Paris, France.
ALEXEI POPYRIN of Australia plays a backhand during the French Open at Roland Garros in Paris, France. Picture: Clive Mason/Getty Images

Alexei Popyrin has clawed his way into the round of 64 at the BNP Parabas Open in Indian Wells after a hard-fought win over world No.63 Miomir Kecmanovic.

The 22-year-old Australian was made to work all the way by the Serbian before triumphing 6-3 7-6 (7-4).

Popyrin seized on his opportunities when they presented, converting both of his break points.

The world No.71, who sent down five aces, will now meet No.8 seed Hubert Hurkacz after the Polish player received a bye in the first-round.

Bowing out of the tournament, however, was Popyrin's compatriot James Duckworth.

The Sydneysider was beaten by Mackenzie McDonald 6-3 6-3, with top-seed and US Open champion Daniil Medvedev waiting for him in the next round.

McDonald dished up eight aces to Duckworth's four and broke the Australian's serve four times.

Other notable first-round winners included Tennys Sandgren, Kei Nishikori and Frances Tiafoe, who scored wins over Thiago Monteiro, Joao Sousa and Benoit Paire respectively.

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