Drama in Miami with three third-set tiebreaks in one day

Monday in Miami showcased nail-biting tennis by three “Next Gen” stars. Each match ended with third-set tiebreakers and valuable experiences for the long and winding road to becoming ATP elite.

1

Borna Coric toppled by Adrian Mannarino 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (3)

After an impressive Saturday win over Dominic Thiem, Coric had more downs than up against tricky southpaw Mannarino.

Unfortunately, few fans stuck around for the deciding tiebreaker because Roger Federer vs. Juan Martin del Potro was already rocking the stadium nearby.

Mannarino took the tiebreaker’s first four and last three points. He secured the win with a pick-up volley on his final match point, while Coric scrambled to reappear from yonder regions of his ad corner.

2

Nick Kyrgios outlasts Ivo Karlovic 6-4, 6-7 (4), 7-6 (2)

Most of the match looked like a rock fight, big servers raining down their ballistics upon the other. Karlovic didn’t get a look at a single breakpoint and Kyrgios squandered seven of eight in the match.

No worries, mate. Kyrgios created some excitement with this buggy-whip winner and a fair impression of mentor Lleyton Hewitt's lawnmower fist pump.

Then Kyrgios decided to go with the tweener, and not just an ordinary baseline save but a bold and brassy rendition. He also let the crowd check out his wingspan while they applauded.

3

Alexander Zverev squeaks past John Isner 6-7 (5), 7-6 (7), 7-6 (5)

The crown jewel of the day’s 7-6 third-set trilogy was seized by Alexander (the Great) Zverev. He defeated one of the most prolific tiebreaker players in the game, edging ahead with the last two points for the total margin of 115-113.

Along the way, Zverev saved three match points and showed new composure beyond his 20 years.

It’s all part of growing into a champion.