Millennium Estoril Open, Portugal

[33] Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) vs. [73] Yuichi Sugita (JPN)

When you have been playing on the Challenger circuit for a while and winning titles, you may have a false sense of comfort about your ability.  It’s somewhat disconcerting not to be able to play on the ATP World Tour at a level that’s consistently high enough to win the majority of your matches and some players find that realization a tad difficult to process.  Sugita realized that today when he faced Del Potro.  After a promising showing in Barcelona last week, he probably believed that he was ready for the big stage.

Yet, it was obvious from his demeanor that he was overwhelmed at the prospect of handling Del Potro’s forehand.  When you cannot find a solution to your opponent’s strengths, you may panic and go away from your own strengths.  The fascinating thing about tennis is that while it is apparently a physical sport, the ability to perform at such a high physical level depends on your mental strength.  You have to truly believe that you can win with your style of play and your weapons.  If there are any doubts, then more than likely you will lose more than you win.  Sugita was frustrated and the first set was over before he could make any adjustments.  While the second set was a bit more competitive, it was inevitable that he would lose.

Despite not playing for almost a month, Del Potro showed minimal rust in his game.  After an erratic first service game, he gained his footing and quickly broke the will of his opponent to win the match 6-1, 6-3. Next up will be the American, Ryan Harrison.

SOURCE OF IMAGE:  Record.pt