DOLGOPOLOV “ON A ROLL” DESPITE END OF BNP PARIBAS OPEN RUN

Written by: Staff on 18th March 2014

DOLGOPOLOV "ON A ROLL" DESPITE END OF BNP PARIBAS OPEN RUN

epa04127168 Alexandr Dolgopolov of Ukraine returns to Roger Federer of Switzerland during their semi final match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California USA, 15 March 2014. EPA/MIKE NELSON |

By Ricky Dimon

Alexandr Dolgopolov’s run at the BNP Paribas Open, which included a 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(5) third-round upset of Rafael Nadal, came to an end on Saturday with a 6-3, 6-1 semifinal loss to Roger Federer.

While he fell two wins short of the ultimate dream scenario, Dolgopolov’s best-ever performance in a Masters 1000 event will catapult him eight spots in the rankings when they are updated on Monday. Currently ranked 31st and on thin ice for a French Open seed, Dolgopolov will climb to No. 23. That mark is still 10 spots off his career-high ranking, but it is his best since May of 2013 and he was 54th in the world as recently as February 23.

With four Masters 1000 events left before Roland Garros and only 235 points to defending during that span, Dolgopolov has virtually assured himself of a seed at the season’s second Grand Slam.

“It’s been great,” the Ukrainian assured. “I didn’t have too much time after Acapulco (reached the semifinals). I had a few days off and then practicing again. So it’s been great. I had some good matches. Really confident on the court. Clean strokes. Healthy. So I think I’m in a good position.

“Even though the match (vs. Federer) was easy–I mean, the score was easy–a lot of games I was leading or I had chances. I can’t say I’m really frustrated from the loss. I did what I can. I was fighting every point. I’m looking forward for Miami. I didn’t go home since Chile, which was six weeks ago. So (I’m) a little bit tired, but I’m ready to play. I think I’m in a good position. I need to fight and try to do good in Miami. Once you’re on a roll, why not take those chances?”

Miami’s Sony Open begins on Wednesday. With a first-round bye as one of the 32 seeded players, Dolgopolov will be back in action on either Friday or Saturday.

Topics: 10sballs, Alexandr Dolgopolov, BNP Paribas Open, Miami, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Sony Open, Sports, Tennis, Tennis News

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10sBalls_com says:

March 18, 2014 at 4:38 pm

Dolgopolov “on a roll” despite end of BNP Paribas Open run – http://t.co/teeXiflsU7 @TheDolgo @BNPPARIBASOPEN #Tennis #News