Monaco upsets Nalbandian

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:19

A winner here two years ago, Monaco will be after his fourth career title on Sunday when he faces third-seeded Tommy Robredo.

The top-seeded Nalbandian appeared to be heading to his second straight final here when he led 5-4, 30-0, on serve in the second set. However, the world number 10 squandered the advantage as he dropped the next 13 points to give his opponent new life.

Monaco has now reached seven ATP finals in his career – all on clay.

Despite his prowess on dirt, the 24-year-old has tough task ahead in Robredo.

The Spaniard defeated fifth seed and 2008 finalist Jose Acasuso 6-4 7-6 (7/3), and is bidding to win his second title in as many weeks after earning the trophy in Costa do Sauipe last weekend.

Robredo, who has won nine straight matches, has split two career meetings with Monaco, taking the most recent encounter last year at the claycourt event in Poland.

Like Monaco, Robredo has thrived on clay – seven of his eight titles have come on this surface.

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