Tim Smyczek demolishes John Patrick to advance into quarterfinal – Tulsa Challenger 2011
American tennis pro Tim Smyczek crushed John Patrick Smith of Australia 7-5, 6-2 on Wednesday to advance into the quarterfinal of 2011 Tulsa Challenger series here in Oklahoma, United States.
Seeded seventh at the tournament, Smyczek displayed some high quality tennis in all departments of the game. Breaking the serve at regular intervals, he completed outplayed his opponent from the baseline. Making most of the chances,
he completed his straight sets victory in only one hour and 37 minutes.
Wild card entrant, Smith, on the other hand, put up a good show but he lacked firepower in several areas of the game. His defensive strategy allowed his opponent to dictate the points and it also played a crucial role in deciding
the outcome of the match. The Australian was disappointed with the result and he aimed to comeback stronger at his next ATP appearance.
Showing his aggressive intent, Smyczek made a strong start to the contest. Playing his natural game freely, he put the challenger under extreme pressure. Rallying brilliantly from the baseline, he earned crucial points on his opponent’s
serve. Breaking the serve twice in the opening set, he raced to a handsome 5-2 lead. Smith did break back once to reduce Smyczek’s serve break advantage but he failed to stop him from earning a well deserved set score lead 1-0.
Smyczek continued with his attacking approach in the second set as well. Using the hit and volley technique very efficiently, he made his rival’s game play look completely ineffective. Breaking the serve at regular intervals, he
established complete control over the contest. Hitting the ball really hard, he forced the challenger to the baseline and then he executed his drop shots to perfection to earn cheap points.
Leading the game score 4-2, the American broke his opponent for the second time to serve out the set. Clinching four straight points on his next service game, he completed an impressive victory to move ahead at the Challengers
tournament.
Smyczek served brilliantly and he hit 65 per cent of his first serves. Securing 67 per cent of his service points, he had no problems holding onto his service games. He even dominated his opponent in the serve return department
of the game as well by claiming more than 50 per cent of the points. Smyczek is looking in commanding form right now and if he can maintain the current level of his game play, he has a great chance of winning the title.
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