Good ATP Singles Debut for Liam Draxl Despite First-Round Loss

Summary:

• Canadian Liam Draxl took the first set in Monday’s ATP Tour singles against Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta.
• Draxl eventually fell in three in his first career singles match.
• Fellow Canadians Alexis Galarneau won his opener, while Dan Martin’s run ended in defeat.

Canada’s Liam Draxl gave the Toronto crowd plenty to cheer about in his ATP Tour singles debut Monday night. The 23-year-old ignored his debut jitters and muscle tightness, pushing Pablo Carreno Busta to the brink before falling in three tight sets.

Draxl: “I Just Wanted to Get Over the Finish Line So Badly.”

Playing under the lights at Sobeys Stadium, the Newmarket, Ontario native came out swinging, taking the first set 6-2 with confident play, animated celebrations, and a strong connection with the home fans. 

However, the match slowly started to slip from his grip following the spirited start.

I got a little tight after winning the first set. I just wanted to get over the finish line so badly.

Carreno Busta, the 2022 champion in Montreal and a former top-10 player, found his footing in the second set, slowing the tempo and relying on experience. The Spaniard capitalized on rising unforced errors from Draxl, breaking serve for a 4-3 lead before closing out the set.

Liam Draxl, ranked No. 113, battled physical discomfort as well, grimacing through shoulder pain and calling a medical timeout early in the third. 

Despite the obvious suffering, he kept pressing and creating more chances, until a crucial double fault at break point eventually offered Carreno Busta a 4-3 lead. The lead proved decisive for the Spaniard, who managed to close out the match 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in just over two hours.

Draxl acknowledged his opponent’s experience on tour, calling him “a tremendous player”.

Galarneau Won Against Rinderknech, Martin Lost to Munar

Elsewhere, Canadian wild card Alexis Galarneau gave fans a lift with a straight-sets win over France’s Arthur Rinderknech, 7-6 (2), 6-3, in a late-night match.

Meanwhile, Dan Martin’s dream run came to an end in the afternoon session. The Laval native, ranked 560th in the world, lost 6-3, 6-0 to Spain’s Jaume Munar. 

Martin had earned his place in the main draw by upsetting Japan’s Taro Daniel in a rain-delayed qualifying match the day before.

It was the first time playing in front of such a big crowd. Honestly, I’m happy with how I played and look forward to seeing how this season goes for me.

Despite the loss, Martin walks away with a $23,760 payday, the biggest of his career yet, and an unforgettable experience.