Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Tomic bows out of French Open

Updated May 24, 2011 12:14:00

Australia's men have produced an unwanted slice of tennis history with their worst showing at the French Open since the tournament turned international in 1925.

Bernard Tomic, the youngest player in the men's competition, was dismissed in straight sets by Argentine journeyman Carlos Berlocq in warm sunshine on court 10.

The South American dished out a lesson on how to play on clay in his 7-5, 6-4, 6-2 victory in two hours and seven minutes.

Tomic's opening-round exit on Monday meant that Australia was without a presence in the men's singles draw in the second round for the first time since 1949.

The nation had no player in the main draw in that year.

The last time Australia had a representative at Roland Garros but failed to have a presence in the second round was back in 1925, the year the tournament first allowed international players.

With Lleyton Hewitt pulling out of the tournament on Sunday with injury, Tomic was left to fly the flag for Australia for the second straight grand slam.

The 18-year-old showed a lack of patience against the seasoned claycourter, losing his serve on seven occasions and producing 46 unforced errors to his opponents 23.

"I think he played much better than I did," said Tomic.

"I had a lot of opportunities in the first set and didn't take it.

"He definitely played much better and was stronger throughout the whole match."

- AAP

Tags: sport, tennis, france

First posted May 24, 2011 06:04:00


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