MADRID: It was a bittersweet ending to Juan Martin del Potro’s first tournament on the clay this year at the Madrid Open.
The Argentinian fourth seed, who was contesting his first tournament for six weeks, bowed out 3-6, 6-4, 7-6(6), to world No.95 Dusan Lajovic on Thursday. It was a case of what could have been for Del Potro, who had a 4-0 lead in the decisive tiebreaker before his Serbian rival battled back for the win.
“He’s a very difficult opponent. Here on clay he plays really well.” The former US Open champion said about Lajovic. “His game forced me to commit some easy errors, some important errors, especially in the tiebreaker. I think I missed a lot of forehands at some important moments.”
“Just some small details that made the match fall on his side.” He added.
There were high expectations surrounding Del Potro following his start to the season. In March he won his maiden Masters title by defeating Roger Federer in the final at Indian Wells. Prior to that he was also victorious in Acapulco. A combination that help him rise to sixth in the world rankings. Two places adrift of his ranking high.
Despite the surprise exit, Del Potro is seeking solace in the positives surrounding his situation. The main aspect being the current state of his health, which is in a good condition. Returning to the tour more than a year ago following wrist surgery, the former US Open champion is still required to undergo daily routines to help protect it.
“I’m feeling good. It’s not the same to be training than to be competing.” He explained. “That’s why I say that two matches are not too much. For me it’s okay. I think I am getting some momentum.”
He will be hoping to continue that momentum next week when he plays at the Foro Italico in Rome. An event where Del Potro has reached the quarter-final stage on two previous occasions. Although, he is eager to improve further in time for the French Open, which will start at the end of this month.
“I think there are always positive things that you can take with you so that you can improve.” Del Potro concluded.
“Rome is another opportunity for me to feel good on clay, which is of course one of the surfaces which is more tricky for me because of the foot movement, because the rallies are a little bit longer. You have to try to make winners all the time more than other surfaces. You also need to have a big serve.”
So far this season, Del Potro has won 22 out of 27 matches played on the ATP Tour. He is seeking his first title on the clay since the 2012 Estoril Open.
