Teen anger after late night Australian Open loss

Australian Open 2010 - week one

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TENNIS TOSS: Andy Murray of Britain throws his racket during his victory over John Isner of the US at the Australian Open in Melbourne.

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Bernard Tomic has lashed out at Australian Open organisers over scheduling, saying it might have cost him a potential giant-killing win over Croatia's Marin Cilic.

The Australian 17-year-old pushed the big-serving 14th seed all the way in a gruelling five-setter which went almost four hours and ended about 4.10am (NZ time) today.

But Tomic said it was "ridiculous" a player of his age was forced into that timeslot and a day fixture might have enabled him to reverse the gallant 6-7(6-8) 6-3 4-6 6-2 6-4 defeat.

"To finish at this time, it's tough. You know, look, I have no excuses, but I think if I'd have played during the day, which I requested, it could have been all changed. I think I should have won," Tomic said.

"But I'm proud of the way I played. It's difficult for me, I had the same problem last year.

"After 1am, 2am, for a 17-year-old to go out and play, it's difficult. For the people I requested to play during the day, and it didn't happen, I think it's ridiculous."

Tomic's match started about 12.20am (NZ time) today, virtually the identical time to his second round loss to Gilles Muller at last year's Open.

He said in no other sport would competitors be forced to play at such an hour and quipped he would have to start booking in 2am practice sessions to prepare himself.

"Especially me, at my age, it's difficult," he said.

Despite that complaint, Tomic can take plenty of heart from his brave performance.

"To be able to see I can compete at this level, it's great for me. I was a few points away tonight from winning. He came up with some good points, you know, enough said."

- AAP