Photo: Getty Images
Marcos is through to the second round of the London 2012 Olympic Games after battling past Japan’s Go Soeda in a rain-interrupted clash at Wimbledon on Monday.
The match had been suspended over night after persistent rain on Sunday left the match finally balanced at 7-6(6), 2-3 in Soeda’s favour. Marcos rallied at the resumption, though, and wrapped up a 6-7(6), 7-6(5), 6-2 victory.
“I'm very happy I won,” said Marcos. “It was a tough match and I'm very happy I found the solution to win. I'm feeling the pressure of the Olympics, all the expectations I have back home, and it's fun to win today. I'm looking forward to tomorrow's match.
“Cyprus has never had a medal before; it would be something amazing to achieve. It's been in my head for a month now. The moment has come and it's a bit stressful, but I'm very happy I won today and I think tomorrow will be better.”
Marcos continues his campaign on Tuesday when he faces French No. 16 seed Richard Gasquet. Discussing the areas of his game he would like to improve, Marcos said, “I think it's mental. Tennis-wise I'm feeling good. I just need to be more relaxed on court and enjoy the game more."
Marcos has a 1-0 record against the No. 20-ranked Gasquet, having beaten the 26 year old in straight sets in the 2010 Sydney final. The match is scheduled to take place first on Court 18, with play beginning at 11:30am local time (1:30pm Cyprus). Check out the full order of play here.
Stay tuned to www.baghdatis.com for all the latest news from London.
Go, Marcos!
