MELBOURNE, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The scene was set for a spectacular battle on Sunday when 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer took on talented Greek prospect Stefanos Tsitsipas in the fourth round of the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne.
Pitting youth up against experience, the 20-year-old Tsitsipas fought back from one set down against the 37-year-old to win the next three sets and take the nail-biting match 6-7 (11), 7-6 (3), 7-5, 7-6 (5).
With the city of Melbourne home to a huge Greek population, there was massive support in the stands for both Tsitsipas and the sport's biggest name Federer.
During his post match television interview Tsitsipas said, "I haven't seen such a loud crowd in my entire life."
"Playing in Rod Laver Arena was something I have been dreaming about as a kid and the atmosphere, the vibes, the energy that you guys gave to me and Roger was indescribable."
"Roger is a legend of our sport, I have so much respect for him. I've been analyzing him since the age of six, and it was a dream come true for me," he added.
Taking the match to the Swiss magician by rushing the net, Tsitsipas explained, that "coming to the net and being aggressive has to keep going because most of the players in this era are baseliners... but serve and volleying keeps the game alive and it makes it much more interesting."
Now set to move into the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career, Tsitsipas will take on Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut.
