João Sousa makes history at Wimbledon after stunning victory

João Sousa has become the first Portuguese player in history to reach the round of 16 of Wimbledon.

Portugal’s number one tennis player came out on top in a sensational clash with Britain’s Dan Evans, which ultimately finished 4-6, 6-4, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4.

After the match, Sousa said: “Yes, well, it was an unbelievable match. I think the crowd was amazing. I’ve never played in such an amazing crowd. Court 1, Wimbledon, it’s just a dream come true, winning here in the fourth round.”

“It’s history for my country and I’m really proud to be part of this history. We are a small country, but also [I’m] very proud to be part of this small country.”

“Danny made an unbelievable match. It could be me, it could be him. In the end it was me. I am proud to win but I have to congratulate Danny, it was a great battle and in the end it was just terrific, unbelievable.” 

“I try to be focussed as much as I could. I knew the crowd was with him. He was playing at home, it is normal [that he has the crowd support] but I was trying to be focused and trying to give my best. In the end they love tennis. This is the atmosphere we work hard to have and in the end I appreciate all the support for him, for me. In the end was a great battle and unforgettable.”

Next up for Sousa is the one and only Rafa Nadal. When asked about the clash with the Spanish legend, Sousa said: “Now is the time to rest, to enjoy this victory, because it was a tough one out there today. Rafa is a great player, no words to describe him. The crowd will be against me again! I’ll try my best out there and hopefully I can play to a good level and I will try my best to try and win.”

Joao Sousa. Photo author: si.robi. License link.