Latvia’s Ernests Gulbis is probably most famous or infamous, amongst British people, for his 2013 ATP World Tour Masters 1000 Canada victory over Andy Murray. After his 1st round Open Sud De France (in Montpelier) 6-4 7-6 victory over Hurkacz, Gulbis means business.
Ernests Gulbis Eyes First ATP Title Since 2014
The Latvian is quietly showing improved form this season; he could be on the cusp of one of his best seasons. He secured a polished victory over the tricky Hungarian Hubert Hurkacz. World #83 Gulbis, potentially meets 5th seed Kohlschreiber in the 2nd round. However, Gulbis will be looking beyond that, as he eyes his first ATP title since 2014. That is way too long ago for a player of his calibre.
Gulbis Still has what it takes to Make Waves on ATP Tour
The Latvian is seeing the ball well and looked polished when making the Maharashtra Open quarterfinals, losing out in two tight sets to Karlovic in the quarterfinals. He looks focus this season. He had every reason to be confident going into the Australian Open 2019. Unfortunately, a back injury forced him to withdraw mid-second set against Stan Wawrinka in the first round. This is unfortunate; Gulbis looked strong when taking the first set. His first round victory in Montpelier shows that this injury seems to have relented.
Draw Good to Gulbis Who Avoids Shapovalov, Berdych or Goffin Until ATP Sud De France Final
Australian Open 2019 semifinalist Lucas Pouille is a potential quarterfinal opponent. It’s yet to be seen the impact that the great run in Melbourne has had on Pouille. Ernest Gulbis will be sure to use the angles and lengthen the points, testing any fatigue the Frenchman may be enduring. Should they meet, that is. Otherwise, Gulbis has every reason to believe that a deep run is possible in Montpelier. Ending his title drought would be most welcomed for Latvian tennis fans.
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