Federer and Nadal join forces while Kyrgios wins again at Laver Cup

Guy Atkinson

Federer and Nadal join forces while Kyrgios wins again at Laver Cup image

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal came together as a doubles pair for the first time to help Europe into a 9-3 lead over the World team on the second day of the Laver Cup in Prague. 

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The pair, who boast 35 grand slam titles between them, required a tie-break to beat American duo Jack Sock and Sam Querrey and claim two precious points for their team.

Federer and Nadal had won the opening set 6-4, before their less illustrious opponents comfortably secured the second 6-1. 

The Swiss and Spaniard's experience came to the fore in the tie-break, though, as they prevailed 10-5.

Earlier in the day Nadal had also needed a tie-break to edge past Sock 6-3 3-6 11-9 in their thrilling singles rubber. Nadal's 50 per cent win rate on his second serve was decisive, with Sock only able to register 18 per cent. 

Federer enjoyed a more routine triumph over Querrey in their encounter as he breezed past this year's Wimbledon semi-finalist 6-4 6-2. 

The World team's only points of the day came courtesy of Nick Kyrgios, who faced a tough – and sometimes tempestuous battle – against home favourite Tomas Berdych.

Kyrgios defeated the Czech 6-4 6-7 (7-4) 10-6, but the match will likely remembered for another outburst from the 22-year-old Australian towards the umpire. 

Sunday marks the final day of the inaugural tournament, with the reward for wins rising from two to three points. 

Guy Atkinson