Millennium Estoril Open, Portugal

[CR31] Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) vs. [CR55] Borna Coric (CRO)

Garcia-Lopez has been playing some brilliant tennis of late and he is one in the long list of players over the age of twenty-eight that’s doing well on tour.  What’s the reason? There is something to be said for the experience that comes with age; however, there are other factors that are contributing to the longevity and success of tennis players.  Tennis players are more aware of the benefits of being in top physical and mental shape; therefore, they are investing the time and money to be as fit as possible.  Added to this is the improvement in technology that has resulted in better equipment, which allows the players to do more with their strokes.

Clay is a surface that demands mental and physical fitness for success; often there are extended rallies which test one’s endurance. Garcia-Lopez knows how to play on clay and is quite fit; he will stay on court and patiently work the point until he gets the opportunity to go for his shot.  Coric, is a young and feisty competitor who believes that he can compete with the best.  He showed some of that talent in the second set, breaking Garcia-Lopez three times.  Unfortunately, you cannot win a match if you do not consolidate the break.  Down 5-1 with Coric serving for the set, Garcia-Lopez never looked troubled. He stayed calm as Coric became emotionally undone. His experience and confidence in the face of Coric’s talented, yet inconsistent play won him the match.

SCORE: Garcia-Lopez def. Coric 6-3, 7-6(4)