After years of coming agonizingly close, heartbreak finally turned into triumph for Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
The 27-year-old Spaniard captured his long-awaited first ATP Tour singles title on Saturday, defeating American Ethan Quinn 7-6(4), 6-3 in the final of the Mallorca Championships. The victory came in Davidovich Fokina’s sixth ATP final and ended one of the longest waits for a maiden title among the ATP Tour’s top players.
For a player who has often been one of the most entertaining and talented competitors on tour, the lack of a title had become one of tennis’ great mysteries. Davidovich Fokina had previously fallen in championship matches in Monte Carlo, Delray Beach, Acapulco and other events, often seeing victory slip agonizingly through his fingers. But on the grass courts of Mallorca, in front of his home fans, there would be no disappointment.
The Spaniard did have to overcome some nerves. He failed to serve out the opening set at 5-4, but regrouped brilliantly to dominate the tiebreak. In the second set, he remained composed, producing the spectacular athleticism, deft touch and fearless shot-making that have become his trademarks throughout his career. (ATP Tour) The victory was especially fitting because it came on Spanish soil. Davidovich Fokina became the first Spanish champion in the history of the Mallorca Championships and finally gave himself the career milestone that many believed was inevitable. (ATP Tour) Throughout his career, Davidovich Fokina has been known as one of the ATP Tour’s most unpredictable talents. His dazzling drop shots, all-court creativity and willingness to dive for seemingly impossible balls have made him a fan favorite. Yet until this week, a singles trophy had remained frustratingly out of reach. (Wikipedia) Now that burden is gone.
For years, Davidovich Fokina carried the label of “best player without an ATP title.” In Mallorca, he finally shed that tag and replaced it with a much sweeter one:
ATP champion.
And judging by the emotion on his face as he lifted the trophy before his home crowd, this first title may be the one he cherishes most for the rest of his career.
