TRNAVA, September 25, 2015

Unlike on Wednesday, favourites were prepared for the windy conditions in Trnava and sailed into the semi-finals without bigger problems. Drama was seen on court 5, where Franko Skugor eliminated Marton Fucsovics through a 6-7, 6-0, 6-3 victory. Horacio Zeballos and Albert Montanes both won their matches full of confidence in two sets.

The opening match on the centre court took less than an hour. Horacio Zeballos, number six of the tournament smashed Stephane Robert in two quick sets 6-1, 6-2. There has never been a doubt about the winner, who adapted his game better to the conditions. The Argentine was better in all aspects and can head confident into the semi-final.

“It was difficult match, it was the most windy day of the week. Tough conditions for both of us. We had some difficult games going through deuce and advantages. I am very happy to win this difficult match in two sets. I need to rest and focus for tomorrow. Mentally I was positive all the time.  I did not feel that good on the court, as it was difficult to serve and hit the balls, but we need to get used to this and have strategy to play with the wind,“ Zeballos told in his post-match interview.

Albert Montanes

Fourth seed Albert Montanes was struggling only in the beginning of the second set, to beat the tournament’s number eigth Adam Pavlasek 6-2, 6-4. The Spanish veteran converted six of his 17 break point chances to seal victory in one hour and 12 minutes.

“I am very happy to be in the semi-final. I kept focused all the time. I was 0-3 down in second set, but I played well in whole second set and came back. It was a very difficult match. I am very confident after this win and look forward tomorrow. Strong wind and little rain made it difficult, but conditions were the same for both. Pavlasek served well, has a good backhand, playing cross shots. I like tournament here in Trnava, because it‘s very comfortable for tennis players to stay in hotel close to the courts,“ said Montanes.

The Spaniard’s next opponent still has to be found as the encounter between top seed Robin Haase and Gerald Melzer had to be postponed at 2-4 to Saturday due to rain.