Albert Ramos edges past Roberto Bautista-Agut to reach the semis – San Sebastian Challenger 2011
Spanish tennis pro Albert Ramos came back from a set deficit against Roberto Bautista-Agut 1-6, 6-4, 6-1 on Thursday to book his place in the semi-final of 2011 International San Sebastian Challenger tournament here in San Sebastian, Spain.
Number eight seed Bautista-Agut started off very brightly as he executed his big forehand and backhand winners to perfection. Breaking his opponent early in the opening set, he took a healthy 4-2 lead. Not allowing Ramos to settle in the match, Agut made most of the available opportunities and he put himself in the driving seat. Clinching four straight games, he took the opener to take 1-0 lead in the set score.
Making a great comeback in the following set, Number one seed Ramos displayed some high quality tennis after the first set. Showing his exceptional clay court skills, the Spaniard created all sorts of problems for his opponent from deep behind the baseline. Holding on to his service games with accurate serving, he level the game score 4-4. Making his first serve break of the match, he took a tricky 5-4 lead as he served for the set. Firing a blistering serve ace, he evened the set score as the match entered the final set.
Not showing any signs of fatigue or tiredness, Ramos continued to play hi natural game freely in the final set as well. Not allowing his opponent to breathe, he used the court to his advantage very effectively. Breaking the serve at regular intervals, he raced to an impassable 5-1. Holding on to his third and final service game in the decider, he completed an emphatic victory in a match that lasted for 2 hours and 18 minutes.
Ranked 71st in the Association of Tennis Professional’s Rankings, Ramos proved just why he is such a dangerous opponent. Coming back from behind to clinch victory, he showed his mental toughness and determination. Giving a special performance after he looked down and out at the end of the first set, he surprised the challenger big time.
Hitting five serve aces during the contest, Ramos was able to play the big points really well. Whenever he was in trouble, he got himself out of it with his huge serves. Besides his attacking abilities, he had a rock solid defence as well. The 23-year-old saved seven out of ten break points in the match.
Taking his chances on his second serves as well, he was certainly braver of the two players. He will be hoping to continue his good form in the upcoming semi-final match-up as well.
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