TENNIS in DEPTH.

To say that Gilles Simon was close to being kicked out of the tournament is an understatement. Facing the new “jewel” of world tennis, the Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov, the number 8 in the world was down 2-5 in the third set. Three times the 17 year old Bulgarian was 2 points away from winning, but he is ranked #401 in the world and clearly lacking experience, Dimitrov gave Simon an opening which the Frenchman was quick and thankful to take. After having worried Nadal last week in Rotterdam, the rookie proved that he is no joke. Final score 4-6 6-3 7-5. For Simon, it was another marathon match, he will now have to rest for his second round match versus a player much older, Rainer Schuettler.

Anyone who has been priviliged to watch 17 year old Dimitrov play has to be aware that they are seeing the next great champion. He plays with a maturity far beyond his years, he constructs points in much the same way that Roger Federer does, and he executes his game plan with an incredible variety of controlled shots from anywhere on the court. His one-handed backhand is pure delight to watch and a product of natural talent…for no coach can teach such a perfect stroke.

When and wherever he plays I will make every effort to witness his performance, and watch as he climbs up the rankings to the very top!

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