Kuzmanov Clutch For Bulgaria In Sydney

Dimitar Kuzmanov fell short of a big win for Bulgaria on Friday against Great Britain, losing to Cameron Norrie in three sets. But the World No. 423 would not be denied on Sunday, defeating Alexander Cozbinov 6-1, 7-5 to give his country a 1-0 lead against Moldova.

The 26-year-old arrived in Sydney without an ATP Tour win in his career. But Kuzmanov broke serve five times against World No. 818 Cozbinov to triumph after one hour and 48 minutes.

[VISIT ATP CUP]

The rallies were tightly contested throughout, with Cozbinov consistently trying to play aggressively as Kuzmanov fended off his opponent's attacks. The Bulgarian was patient, forcing Cozbinov to go for more and more from neutral positions in the court, leading to some errors after long points. The Bulgarian also tried to use his backhand slice to change the rhythm of rallies.

But Cozbinov was playing for his country, and like he did against Belgium's Steve Darcis Friday, the Moldovan battled hard until the end. The 24-year-old surged from 0-4 down in the second set, getting back on serve at 5-5, even after Kuzmanov earned a 40/0 advantage as he served for the match for the first time at 5-4.

Kuzmanov remained calm, though, breaking back in the next game to earn the chance to serve for the match again. Even after falling short in a 40-shot rally on his fourth match point, Kuzmanov sealed his victory with a forehand down the line that Cozbinov couldn't handle. The Bulgarian fell to the court on his stomach in celebration, getting up and kissing the Bulgarian flag on his shirt.

Former World No. 3 Grigor Dimitrov will now try to close out the tie for his country against Moldovan No. 1 Radu Albot in their first Head2Head meeting.

from Tennis - ATP World Tour https://ift.tt/2MTZwus