Success for Dimitrov in Cincinnati
Originally published on 20/08/17 00:00
The Bulgarian was elated to win his first Masters crown and he will climb back into the Top 10 in the rankings on Monday. It was a faultless display from the 26-year-old and his outstanding defensive skills contributed to his success.
“It’s always tough to play against you,” the new champion told Kyrgios after the match. “I would just like to thank my team and everybody who has been working so hard for this.”
It was an excellent week for Kyrgios after his recent injury woes, and he paid tribute to his opponent and friend after the match. “I just want to congratulate Grigor,” he remarked. “He is back in top form and I knew he always had it in him. Right back to the Australian Open I was watching him and he was incredible – it’s great to see him doing so well again.”
Both players rattled through service holds in a cagey opening but it was Kyrgios who faltered in the sixth game. The 23-year-old was loose from the baseline as he grew increasingly frustrated at his inability to blast his way through his athletic rival.
Dimitrov survived a scare in the following game before moving 5-2 ahead and he was soon clenching his fist in delight after banking the first set.
Kyrgios rarely wavered from his forceful style of play and it was in his interests to keep the points short and sweet. Dimitrov dominated the prolonged baseline exchanges and he was quite content to trade with his unpredictable opponent without taking unnecessary risks.
A tiebreak loomed large in the second set however the Australian imploded in the 11th game. He committed three double-faults to gift his rival a break and out of nowehere, he was on the brink of defeat.
Dimitrov has been known to get flustered when attempting to close out matches of significance but he stepped up to the line without hesitation. He finished the contest with aplomb and his joy at winning a 7th title was obvious.
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