Berdych reaches Australian Open last-16

Melbourne Jan 20 (IANS) Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic on Saturday defeated Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina 6-3 6-3 6-2 to earn a place in the fourth round of the Australian Open for the 10th time.

After two hours and 16 minutes Berdych ended Del Potro s best run in Melbourne since 2013 as the Argentine had struggled with left wrist issues in recent years reports Efe.

"I think I was well prepared and well ready and you know stick with my plan and I am glad that I can stand here as a winner " Berdych said after earning his fourth win in his ninth career match against Del Potro.

The 32-year-old Berdych who has never made it past the semi-finals in Melbourne fired 20 aces and 52 winners compared to Del Potro s seven and 26 respectively.

Berdych is set to play Fabio Fognini of Italy who defeated Frenchman Julien Benneteau 3-6 6-2 6-1 4-6 6-3 in three hours.

--IANS
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