Miami Open 2023: Felix Auger-Aliassime crashes out in third round as Francisco Cerundolo claims revenge

Fifth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime crashed out of the Miami Open in the third round with a 6-2 7-5 defeat to Francisco Cerundolo, as the Canadian’s impressive run of ATP 1000 form came to an end.

Auger-Aliassime had reached at least the quarter-finals in his last six ATP 1000 appearances and was the favourite to progress to the last 16, having beaten Cerundolo at Indian Wells and the Australian Open already this year.

But the Argentine, seeded 25th in Miami, was a deserved winner as he hit 12 winners to his opponent’s seven and profited from 19 unforced errors by Auger-Aliassime.

Cerundolo will face Lorenzo Sonego or Frances Tiafoe in the last 16 as he bids for just the second title of his career – the first coming last year in Bastad – and a repeat of his stunning run to the semi-finals 12 months ago.

“I’m very happy to be back again in the round of 16 here, in a Masters 1000, here in Miami,” said Cerundolo.

“I’m super happy that I’m playing as well as last year, super happy with my level, and [hope] to keep going.”

Auger-Aliassime was broken in his opening game and faced an uphill battle from there. Cerundolo seized the double break to go 4-1 up when the Canadian stuck a forehand on the net, and stayed strong on serve to take the opener.

A tighter second set saw both players earn two breaks as it stayed level up to 5-5, but Cerundolo managed to edge ahead again and put himself in the position to serve for the match, taking his third match point in a nervy conclusion.

World No.79 Quentin Halys of France beat Mackenzie McDonald 7-6 (7-2) 6-3 to continue his superb run in his first-ever main draw appearance at Miami.