Playing his first clay-court singles match of the season, Marcos was beaten by qualifier Evgeny Korolev 7-5, 7-6(3) on Tuesday in the first round of the BMW Open in Munich.
“I hadn’t played a match for a long time because of my [shoulder] injury and it was my first match on clay too,” said Marcos, who acknowledged it was also more difficult playing a qualifier, who had already adjusted to the surface and conditions.
“It was very difficult to find a good rhythm because my opponent was very aggressive and was in control of the match all the time. Towards the end of the match, I felt more in control and I had some chances to win the [second] set.”
Marcos has been sidelined much of the past six weeks with a right shoulder injury, but confirmed his shoulder is feeling strong at the clay-court season.
“The important thing is that I am practising well. I played doubles on Monday and my match today and my shoulder is feeling strong,” said Marcos, who is through to the doubles quarter-finals with American Eric Butorac. “I think it’s important for me to stay as long as possible on the court to get some momentum started. It’s a difficult surface for my game and it’s a big challenge for me to adapt and find a way to win matches.”
Stay tuned to www.baghdatis.com for news on Marcos’ progress in the doubles.
