#2 Decent results against higher ranked players
Sock has put in a number of bright performances in the last couple of years which has led to his rise through the rankings. Every time some unheard or unheralded player’s course to becoming a household name begins when he gets the better of top-ranked players. So far, Sock has recorded 5 victories over Top 10 players, out of which four came this year.His first win over a Top 10 player came in 2014 against then US Open runner-up Kei Nishikori who was ranked a then career-best 6th. He would not win against a Top 10 player until this January when he defeated David Ferrer in the semi-finals of the Auckland Open.
He then defeated 9th ranked Marin Cilic in the third round of the US Open in three sets which was followed by a win against Wimbledon runner-up at the third round of the Shanghai Masters despite losing the opening set 0-6.
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Sock’s most recent win over a Top 10 ranked player came recently in the Paris Masters when he beat eighth ranked Dominic Thiem in straight sets in the second round of the tournament. Besides his wins, he has put up a tough fight over many top ranked players in recent times. Provided he can maintain his recent run of form, Sock could well be one of the most dangerous competitors during next year’s Tour.
