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ATP urged to consider tennis scheduling changes

No excuses from Nalbandian after shock defeat


Tenth-seeded Argentine David Nalbandian became the biggest men’s casualty so far at the Australian Open as he was sent crashing out in round two by Chinese Taipei’s Yen-Hsun Lu 6-4, 5-7, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

World No.61 Lu, who beat Andy Murray in the first round at the Olympics last year, hit nine aces and 51 winners past last weeks Sydney champion, who said afterwards his opponent was simply too good.

I never saw him before, Nalbandian said, but I know he has beaten some good guys, he just played great today. Better than me and that was enough to get the victory.

I was always down, a break down. I really had to fight to try and come back. It was not easy. I dont know if it was perfect, but he played at a very high level.

He played so good, return, serve, forehand, backhand, everything.

I have been playing good, but what can you do if the other guy is playing better than you? There was a little frustration from myself but thats the way it is.

To his credit, David Nalbandian offered absolutely no excuses, not even the notorious Auusie heat. It was a perfect time to play, it was not that hot. Physically we were good.”

Lu goes on to play 21st seeded Spaniard Tommy Robredo.


Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.