Korda: "I was looking forward to facing Casper (Ruud)".

Sebastian Korda is full of confidence.

After winning the title in Washington last week, the American has just been propelled into the quarter-finals following the withdrawal of Casper Ruud, who was visibly ill.

After defeating Fritz with authority in the second round (6-4, 7-6), he didn't have to face the Norwegian and is now set to take on Alexander Zverev, the designated favorite for the title, in the quarter-finals.

Interviewed in the press conference, the 24-year-old had some very complimentary words for the world number 9, whom he didn't have to face in the end. To hear him tell it, he was disappointed not to be able to play the match: "I was looking forward to playing Casper (Ruud).

He's one of my favorite players on the circuit. One of the nicest guys. I wish him a speedy recovery.

I was prepared for a long day. Two games in one day, that's not easy. It hasn't happened to me very often.

All in all, I've had a lot of rest days this week, and I can't wait to get back on the pitch."