Heading to Acapulco with only four wins under his belt so far in 2020, John Isner is through to the quarter-final following a 6-3, 7-6 triumph over Marcos Giron in just over an hour and 30 minutes. Struggling a little bit with humidity, Isner started to lose steam towards the closing stages but he still sealed the deal in straight sets, avoiding to spend more time on the court and setting the clash against another American Tommy Paul who stunned Alexander Zverev.
Giron won more points on the return than Isner but not those that count the most, wasting all five break chances and suffering one break of serve to propel John through after a single mini-break in the second set tie break.
Speaking after the match, John felt happy to finish the job without having to play a decider, loving the fact his wife and kids are with him in Acapulco, making it a sort of a home event. Struggling with injuries recently, Isner is doing his best to get back to a high level and extend his career as much as possible.
"I felt all right on the court, starting the match well and keeping my rhythm. It was very humid; I'm a big and heavy guy who sweats a lot in these conditions so I was getting a little bit tired towards the end. That's why I'm pleased to finish the job in straight sets.
My whole family is here and it feels great to go back home and see my kids and wife; it is super special and it feels you like at home. I have been dealing with many injuries lately, especially with my foot, hampering a lot and not being able to train in the way I would like.
As I get older, it doesn't get easier to remain healthy; I realize that and it hit me pretty hard. Still, I'm doing everything right and hopefully I can keep going for a couple of more years. I could play better but I'm happy with my performance overall, although I will have to raise it if I want to win the title. I will need my best tennis against Tommy Paul."