Cameron Norrie, a Briton born in New Zealand, stormed into Friday’s final of Auckland Open. He defeated Jenson Brooksby 6-3, 6-4 to win the match. This is his unbeaten start for the season ahead of the Australian Open.
After Constant Lestienne withdrew from the semi-final due to a shoulder injury, the French veteran won a walkover and will now face Richard Gasquet for his title.
Norrie lost only one point on his own serve in set 1, and was able to dominate American’s serve, eventually achieving the breakthrough that almost assured him the set. Brooksby had saved five break points.
Cameron Norrie will take on Richard Gasquet, who aims to maintain his unbeaten start in the season’s final of the ASB Classic. Phil Walter/Getty Images
Brooksby won the second set despite a wrist injury that required a timeout. Norrie answered every question Norrie asked.
The American broke serve early, but Norrie responded with an immediate break back in love. Norrie then broke again to take a 3-3 lead. He reached his 12th career ATP final on the third match point.
“It was a fierce battle with Jenson, lots of long rallies, so I know how well he competes, so I’m just glad that I got it done in straight sets,” Norrie, who was the runner-up in Auckland in 2019.
It was a great experience. I was glad that the sun came out. Everyone came out on Fridays, it was great atmosphere.
The British are also represented in the four other ATP warm ups for the Australian Open, which will be played this week at Adelaide International 2.
Jack Draper will face Rafa Nadal next week in Melbourne Park’s opening round. South Korean Kwon Soon woo will take on Jack Draper in the first semi-final. Thanasi Kokkinakis, the local champion, will be facing Roberto Bautista Agut from Spain in the second.