Adam Walton is seizing a unique opportunity at the Miami Open, having advanced to the tournament’s fourth round. The 25-year-old Australian, who was among four lucky losers invited to join the main draw, achieved a hard-fought victory over wildcard Coleman Wong with a score of 7-6, 4-6, 6-4 during the third round on Tuesday (AEDT). This marks Walton’s first appearance in the round of 16 at an ATP Masters event.
Following his match, Walton expressed his joy and disbelief at his good fortune. “I’m very happy right now,” he mentioned. “I shouldn’t even be here. It’s just some very good fortune this week. I got thrashed in qualifying then got the call-up three days later to play again. It almost feels like a new start, a new tournament. I’m just so happy to be through to the last 16.”
Prior to his unexpected participation in Miami, Walton had already packed to head to Mexico for his next Challenger Tour event when he received the late invitation to compete. Reflecting on his past struggles, he noted that wins have been elusive on the Tour, with this being only his fifth victory out of over twenty matches. “Playing these big tournaments is obviously very rewarding… you don’t take it for granted because there are so many people chasing to be at these tournaments,” he remarked.
Walton’s journey began with his initial challenge against world No. 61 Luciano Darderi, whom he defeated 6-4, 6-4, paving the way for his subsequent victory over Coleman Wong. This accomplishment makes him the first lucky loser since Horacio Zeballos in 2016 to reach the round of 16 in Miami.
His next match will be a formidable challenge as he faces world No. 4 Taylor Fritz, who advanced after easily defeating Denis Shapovalov in straight sets. In other tournament news, Australian player Jordan Thompson was eliminated by top seed Alexander Zverev, losing 7-5, 6-4. However, Alex de Minaur will join Walton in the round of 16 following his win against Brazilian teen Joao Fonesca, finishing their match with scores of 5-7, 7-5, 6-3.
Walton’s journey at the Miami Open is a testament to resilience and the unpredictable nature of competitive tennis, as he looks forward to his upcoming challenge against a top-ranked opponent.