Facing Rafael Nadal on Rod Laver Arena was surreal, says Alex De Minaur

will always cherish his Australian Open third round match against . Not so much for the result – the Australian lost 6-1 6-2 6-4 – but for the great atmosphere on the Rod Laver Arena.

Probably the things you dream of, said De Minaur. This is why you play the sport. My first time playing on Rod Laver. I was able to share the court with someone like Rafa. Thats a pretty surreal experience once you sit down and think about it.

Just the crowd support that Ive had pretty much the whole way has been insane. At the later stages of that match, it was quite deafening. It was pretty cool. Gave me goosebumps. Ill do everything in my power to keep improving, and hopefully get many more chances to play on that court.

On the upcoming Davis Cup, De Minaur added: Everyone thats going to Adelaide, theyre really looking forward to it. As a team, I believe theres nothing better or theres no greater honor than representing your country.

Im looking forward to going out there with all the fellas and just keep pushing each other. Its a great couple of weeks. Probably the weeks that I enjoy most out of the whole year. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal: Worse players than David Ferrer won a Grand Slam title