Jacob Fearnley welcomes the 'massive test' of facing world No 2 Alexander Zverev after experiencing his first brush with local celebrity with Nick Kyrgios' eye-catching victory.

This time last year, Jacob Fearnley was preparing to represent the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs against the Abilene Wildcats.

Twelve months and 450 world rankings later, he is preparing to face world No. 2 and Grand Slam finalist Alexander Zverev on Friday in the third round of the Australian Open.

“A different atmosphere, for sure,” Fearnley said when asked to contrast those encounters. “Coming to the winning side of these matches (their first two rounds) gives me a lot of faith, but I'm also aware that there are different levels and obviously playing Zverev on Friday will be another huge test.

'I've never hit him, I just walked past him for the first time a moment ago. You don't realize how big he is and he sure has a bit of an aura around him.'

Fearnley, 23, is a big underdog against Zverev, but so far he has overcome every challenge the sport has thrown his way. A match against one of the favorites for the Australian Open title should offer an excellent barometer of his level.

Talking to Fearnley, he sometimes seems almost bewildered by the speed of his progress. He has risen from 525th in the world to 77th and will earn around £150,000 for his work this week. Having beaten Nick Kyrgios in the first round, he is also gaining some local celebrity.

Jacob Fearnley prepares to face the 'aura' of Alexander Zverev in their third round clash

The German is a formidable opponent with two straight set wins under his belt in Melbourne.

Fearnley has been dealing with his budding celebrity after defeating Nick Kyrgios.

“One person recognized me,” he said. 'He was getting into the car and ran from the other end of the street. He said, “Are you the guy who played Nick?” and we took a selfie.'

Of the financial windfall, he added: “I don't really think about the prize money until after the tournament, but having money to pay for a team and all that, I treat those things as investments: spending that money helps me become more money and It helps me become a better tennis player.”

Wednesday was a double celebration for Fearnley: a second-round victory against Frenchman Arthur Cazaux and his third anniversary with girlfriend Keagan Polk.

Polk is a beach volleyball player at Texas Christian University, where she met Fearnley, and is here in Melbourne supporting him.

His man will need all the support he can get against Zverev.