Rakuten Japan Open Tennis Championships

A comparison of opposites, [CR5] David Ferrer versus [CR44] Marcel Granollers, the only similarity, they are both from Spain. Ferrer is quick around the court, mentally tough, physically fit, and has a ferocious forehand.  Granollers has a big serve and exquisite hands around the net.

Ferrer had never lost to Granollers in their five previous encounters and no match had ever gone the distance; thus, a similar outcome was expected today.  Granollers has also not been that confident; however, neither has Ferrer. Although Ferrer took the first set, it was not with a convincing display of his skills.

Ferrer has lost his mental edge and it was reflected again today in this loss to Granollers. When you turned on the television and saw Ferrer’s name in a match, you were usually guaranteed a competitive fight and a win, at least against players he was expected to beat.  These days, there are no such guarantees, a string of losses has taken a toll on his confidence and he is struggling to find his form.

Although Granollers won the match 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, it is more appropriate to say that Ferrer lost the match.  Ferrer’s strength is his willingness to fight for every point and he will fight to regain his top form.