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Monday, May 28, 2012

French Open 2012: Cilic Versus Ferrero - Preview

Marin Cilic takes on Juan Carlos Ferrero in the second round on Wednesday, the 30th May. Cilic is the 21st seed whereas Ferrero won the French Open in 2003. They have met once before on the hard courts of Cincinnati in 2009, but that result may not have much bearing on the ensuing clash.  

Ferrero is a strong clay court player who earns his points through precision and placement. He is a counter puncher like many of his fellow Spaniards. His motto is to stay in the rallies and wait for the opportune moment. At 32 years of age, his mobility and footwork are good. His weak point is absence of powerful hitting which is a must for the baseliners at the French Open in the present time. His strong point is that he is consistent and does not defeat himself.

Cilic has gone through ups and downs in the last two years. He entered the top ten two years ago, but after that his form dipped. He hits flatter shots which tend to sail out when ball is not hit from the middle of the racquet. He hits through the ball which requires him to be behind the ball, especially on the backhand. His game is similar to that of Ferrero, but being eight years younger, he takes more risks and strives to create openings. Standing tall at 198 cm., his count of aces will be higher than that of his opponent.

In the normal course, Cilic could have been called a favourite, but considering that Ferrero is an ex-champion here, both have equal chances of victory.  


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