Western & Southern Open, Cincinnati

That was how Tsonga came out today against [CR25] Mikhail Youzhny (RUS).  Thus, it was no surprise that he lost 1-6, 4-6. Despite the 50% probability of winning based on their past history, [CR 10] Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) just was not in the moment.  He did show some interest when Youzhny served for the match at 5-2, he broke him and then held serve; however, the damage had already been done and Youzhny controlled his own nerves to take the victory.

Tsonga was still basking in the glow of his recent success at the Rogers Cup, Canada; and his play today lacked commitment and enthusiasm.  If he wants to compete with the players in the top echelon of the game, he has to make the commitment to consistently play quality tennis. Tsonga knows what it takes to get there, he’s been ranked in the top ten. He knows that sporadic bursts of great play may be exciting for the fans; however, without sustained high quality performance, he will continually undermine his potential.