It was heartbreak for Germany’s Philipp Kohlschreiber as Croatia’s Borna Coric staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the third seed 5-7, 7-6(3), 7-5, to win the Marrakech Open.
Twice a runner-up on the ATP Tour, including last year’s Marrakech final, it seemed as if number three was inevitable for 20-year-old Croic. Fast server Kohlschreiber positioned himself agonisingly close to an eigth ATP trophy. Leading the match 7-5, 6-5, the German had five championship points, but failed to convert all of them.
Kohlschreiber’s inability to close the match out provided Coric a feeding ground as the next generation star snatched the second set in what was a dramatic turn of events. Continuing to face adversity in the decider, Coric trailed 1-3 before staging another resurgent comeback. His resurgence eventually wore down a rapidly disheartened Kohlschreiber, who dropped two out of his last three service games.
“It was a wonderful week, but unfortunately today is a painful day.” said Kohlschreiber, who also failed to convert seven match points against Andy Murray earlier this year.
“Borna, it was a great fight today. You deserve (to win). You have a great future, keep going.” He added.
Coric in the third first-time champion on the ATP Tour this season after Gilles Muller and Ryan Harrison. He achieved the milestone with the help of 10 aces (three fewer than his rival) and a 64% winning rate on his serve. Furthermore, Coric also managed to save six out of the nine break points he faced.
“I was a bit lucky to be honest because I just thought it (the match) was basically over.” The relieved 20-year-old admitted.
Coric is set to rise to 49th in the Emirates rankings, returning to the top-50 for the first time since January 1st. Prior to Marrakech, the Croat has only won six matches in nine tournaments played this season.
