Cameron Norrie admitted Milos Raonic’s serve was just “too good” after the Canadian blew him out of the cinch Championships with a record 47 aces.
The former Wimbledon finalist sent down one serve at 145mph – and his second serve average speed of 118mph was 7 mph quicker than Norrie’s average first serve speed.
His tally of aces is the highest ever in a three-set ATP Tour match.
“There’s not much really to say other than he won the last point and he served unreal,” said the British No.2. “Too good. Even before the match I said he’s probably got the best serve I have ever faced. It’s tricky. He hits all the spots.
The British No.2 had two match points in the third set tiebreak but went down 6-7 6-3 7-6. World No.39, who lost to world No. 773 Jack Pinnington Jones in Nottingham last week said: “It’s tough, but I played great. We’re all devastated in my team, but it was a good level.”
World No.186 Raonic, who has been dogged by injuries, said: “It was an incredible match. I got lucky to get through. Obviously the serve helped me a lot today. It is a big part of my game.”
Jack Draper will play his first round match against Argentine Mariano Navone today (tues) after stating becoming British No.1 is only a stepping stone to bigger prizes in his career.
“My goal is to honestly be one of the top players in the world,” he said. “I think by winning a title last week, it helps me believe more and more.”
World No.15 Holger Rune complained about the slippy court at Queen’s Club as he went down 4-6 7-6 6-3 to Aussie Jordan Thompson.
During his match on Centre Court, the Dane said: “Terrible court, what is this? I can’t stand on the court. You think I’m falling on purpose?”
Frances Tiafoe was forced to retire in the third set against qualifier Rinky Hijikata when he slipped on Court 1.
