Photo: Ron Angle
Marcos made a strong start to his Australian Open campaign, defeating Frenchman Julien Benneteau 6-3, 7-6(5), 6-2 on Monday in Melbourne.
Despite having lost to Benneteau in their past two meetings and, admittedly, not playing his best in this first round encounter, Marcos was able to play his best tennis when it mattered to secure his place in the second round.
In tough, windy conditions on Show Court 2, Marcos broke Benneteau to lead 4-3 in the first set after the Frenchman committed an unforced error, before going on to break a second time to take a one set lead.
The second set was far tighter, but Marcos prevailed in the tie-break to assume a two-set lead and carried his momentum into the third set as he raced to a 5-2 lead. Saving some of his finest tennis till last, a drop shot from Marcos put him ahead in the final game and he closed out the victory with a backhand winner down the line.
For more match details, check out this story on the Australian Open website.
“I didn't play my best tennis, but I'm happy I went through,” said Marcos afterwards. “That's a nice first round to have in those tough conditions, two hours and 40 minutes under the sun. It's a good way to start the tournament.
“[The serve was] not so good, but I don't really care. I'm happy I went through. I have one day to work on it tomorrow. I'll try to work on it and get better. I cannot be perfect every day. I think I need some matches. I'm confident. I think I'll take it day by day and work hard. I think my serve will come one day.”
Reflecting on his vociferous support, Marcos said: “I mean, they help you get through tough moments. One more time that's what they did today. They were there. They helped me get through this tough moment.”
Read Marcos’ full interview here
Marcos moves on to face Swedish No. 16 seed Robin Soderling in the second round. Stay tuned for more on that match.
Go, Marcos!
