Alexandr Dolgopolov takes on Marcos Baghdatis in the second round on
Friday, the 31st August. Dolgopolov has defeated Baghdatis three times in four
meetings, all on hard courts. The last two matches went full distance, with
Dolgopolov emerging the victor in both. Both of them took five sets to overcome
their opponents in the first round.
Dolgopolov has tortured his fans time and again by failing where he was
destined to succeed. He produces miraculous shots followed by silly shots so
often that critics have tended to label him inconsistent. His journey from
sublime to ridiculous is instantaneous. Percentage play is anathema to him to
the extent that he appears careless than carefree on important points. He comes
to innovate on the court and victory is not more important than the dictate of
impulse. Baghdatis used to have a good balance of risk taking and percentage
play, but of late, tends to become very defensive. He could never regain the
magic of 2006 when he reached the finals of the Australian Open,
especially after he suffered injury in 2008. It has been a steady decline for
him and for some, he has joined the ranks of under-achievers.
Dolgopolov, having a lean body, is fast on the court and quick in action,
but jerky. He takes time away from the opponent by a very quick service motion.
However, it is his first serve percentage that sometimes lets him down. He is
able to get a decent number of aces in every match, but the second serve is a
liability. He slices on both flanks to disturb the rhythm of his opponent. Having
played him four times already, Baghdatis will expect the unexpected in every
rally. He will match Dolgopolov stroke to stroke; have fair share in the number
of aces; and a fair share in the number of supporters in the stands.
The advantage lies with Dolgopolov unless he self-destructs himself.
Baghdatis has limited chances if Dolgopolov is in sublime mode.
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