No way it could be worse

Gaubas played really badly in his first round against the young local Miguel, at least it can’t get any worse!

It was really a bad match from Gaubas, who completely lost his way for a whole set before taking advantage of his opponent’s drop. I don’t know if he felt the pressure from the crowd or if it was just an off day, but it’s nothing like what he showed in qualifying. He’s generally quite a solid player, able to take control of the game but not only shine in that one style, which is why it’s pretty surprising. As I said, it’s not easy to play against a local, so let’s say it’s ok.

Now he’s into the second round and this time he’s going to have to find his range, otherwise it won’t work. Etcheverry is a model of consistency: he doesn’t play huge matches, but he always finds a way to win, either mentally or physically. Once again he went through after losing the first set to Comesana; he keeps his head down when he’s not dialed in yet, and as soon as he gets the upper hand he doesn’t give away a single point and really presses hard. Big advantage in experience and match management for him tomorrow, normally!

For a first meeting it’s hard to see Gaubas doing much; I think Etcheverry will win more easily than in his recent matches, but I’m not sure the odds will be that interesting.