Gulbis Taking Steps Forward
Following up on his first tournament win earlier this year, Ernests Gulbis defeated Roger Federer at the Italian Open last week in an exciting three set encounter 7-5 in the third. It was clearly not Federer’s best day at the office, but still this was a BIG win for Gulbis,
especially after defeating Marcos Baghdatis in the first round quite easily which was another impressive performance. Ernests’ run continued all the way to the semis where he took a set off of Rafael Nadal before losing in three sets.
Gulbis, who reached the quarterfinals at the French Open a couple years ago, has shown he can challenge all the very top players. Gulbis credits Hernan Gumy, his new coach, with helping him improve, as well as his new fitness coach and the fact that his father is now traveling with him. After claiming a victory over Federer, it will be interesting to see how Gulbis follows up this success through the spring and summer Slam season. At the age of twenty-one, Gulbis has a bright future if he can harness his talent.
Gulbis, who reached the quarterfinals at the French Open a couple years ago, has shown he can challenge all the very top players. Gulbis credits Hernan Gumy, his new coach, with helping him improve, as well as his new fitness coach and the fact that his father is now traveling with him. After claiming a victory over Federer, it will be interesting to see how Gulbis follows up this success through the spring and summer Slam season. At the age of twenty-one, Gulbis has a bright future if he can harness his talent.
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