Photo: Mike Baz
Marcos could not quite close out an excellent week in Washington D.C, by winning the Legg Mason Tennis Classic title, instead falling short against an inspired David Nalbandian in Sunday’s final. The Argentine looked nearly back to his best after a succession of serious injuries as he prevailed 6-2, 7-6(4).
After a great effort this week, though, Marcos is projected to move up to No. 21 in the South African Airways 2010 ATP Rankings on Monday and will take a lot of confidence into the Rogers Cup, which begins tomorrow in Toronto.
Nalbandian was sublime in the first set, and deservedly took it 6-2, with two breaks of serve. Marcos came back strongly in the second set, though, working hard to find a way to handle the Argentine’s potent and aggressive groundstrokes.
He fought back from a break down at 3-2 to earn a set point in the 12th game, but was denied by more brave hitting from the fatiguing Nalbandian. In the ensuing tie-break, the Argentine was too good and sealed victory in just under two hours.
Stay tuned to www.baghdatis.com for match reaction from Washington and a look ahead to the Toronto draw.
Well done, Marcos!
