This was the defining moment for the unconventional newcomer in Australian tennis.
Max Purcell, previously ranked around 300th, impressively won the first set in his quarter-final match at the Cincinnati Masters in August against the former world No 1, Carlos Alcaraz.
As anticipated, the Spanish player’s performance improved in the second set and they were able to break the Australian player’s serve early on in the third set, resulting in a 2-0 lead. However, the 25-year-old surprised the crowd in Ohio by utilizing a traditional serve-and-volley strategy and successfully breaking back.
Purcell remained determined until the very end. Despite being considered the underdog, he battled against Alcaraz, who is expected to be the new face of tennis after Djokovic’s reign. In the end, Purcell was unable to capitalize on a break opportunity in the final game and lost 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
“I was somewhat let down by the loss, as there aren’t many opportunities to claim a victory against a world number one in the later stages of a third set,” Purcell states before the upcoming Australian Open.
“I was really excited about the previous five matches, where I proved my strength and ability to compete with top players. Not only that, but I also brought a unique game style to throw them off their game.”
As a child, Purcell would often be brought to the courts on the northern beaches of Sydney with his older sister and twin brother. Initially, he was more focused on catching lizards, but eventually developed a love for tennis. This passion has led him to achieve a top 50 ranking on the ATP tour, after a significant jump of 168 places in 2023.
However, the path of the 25-year-old has been unique. Purcell first gained recognition in the doubles circuit, where he and fellow Australian Matt Ebden won Wimbledon in 2022. He still prefers watching doubles over singles, citing the variety and faster pace of the game.
He has been vocal about his opinions. In 2022, he had a short-lived disagreement with Nick Kyrgios and claimed that Lleyton Hewitt lacked the courage to inform Purcell that he did not receive a wildcard for the Australian Open. “Lleyton and I have since resolved any issues,” he states.
Despite everything, he has consistently utilized one of the more unconventional playing techniques of modern times.
“I have noticed that approximately 80% of the tour players are similar in their style,” he explains. “Although their techniques may appear different, the patterns and ball speed are quite similar.”
In 2024, most players utilize dominant and thoroughly practiced top-spin ground strokes to dominate points from the back of the court, certain that their shots and shots back will dissuade opponents who prefer to mix up their strategy.
Purcell explains that his skills from the back of the court are not as important since there are many other players who are just as good. He believes that having the ability to come forward, use a slice, and have good hands gives him an advantage and it would be foolish not to utilize these options.
Along with his preferred shot, the slice backhand, Purcell has also honed a dependable forehand slice that he confidently utilizes as an offensive tool. His experience playing doubles at a high level has sharpened his skills at the net, making him a formidable presence.
Over the past year, he has been successful in 72.4% of his first service points, which is comparable to other top 10 players such as Holger Rune, Tommy Paul, Casper Ruud (whom Purcell defeated in the Cincinnati tournament), and Alcaraz.
Ignore the advertisement for the newsletter.
after newsletter promotion
However, the Australian player is aware that he cannot continuously serve and volley. This strategy is more successful on smoother courts, with quicker balls, and against opponents who tend to play defensively on their returns.
Display image in full screen mode.
“I enjoy doing it no matter what surface or balls are involved,” he explains. “However, it may not happen 70 to 100% of the time, but rather 20% of the time.”
Regardless of the circumstances, Purcell finds satisfaction in the way his strategy poses a challenge for his adversaries. He explains, “Even when facing a 20% return rate, it still feels like a significant amount more than 20%.” He believes it is particularly effective against opponents who tend to stay back or take a more passive approach on returns.
He has been able to make the most of the on-court contest thanks to a refined off-court approach. More than six years after Purcell won his first professional tournament, he has now found a rhythm on tour.
In 2024, Purcell has no intention of going back to Australia during the middle of the season. Instead, he wants to prioritize his preparation and follow a schedule that fits his playing style. He understands the importance of listening to his body and taking breaks when necessary. He also feels that he has made progress mentally, especially after receiving positive feedback for his remarks about Hewitt.
The speaker acknowledges that their thoughts are valid, but they should remain internal. They believe they must persevere and view this experience as a part of their personal growth. They also realize that there are many other players who do not have the same opportunities, making them feel unappreciative of what they have achieved or have not achieved.
However, on the court, the newcomer continues to provoke and irritate, even those in the upper echelons of tennis such as Alcaraz.
Purcell recalls an interview after their August match where the question of what he dislikes about tennis was asked. In response, he mentioned serve-and-volley, which amused Purcell.
-
The first round of the Australian Open will commence on Sunday, January 14th at Melbourne Park.
