Joran Vliegen has seen it happen in practice, but never in an actual match. Competing in the doubles semi-finals at the ATP Challenger Tour event in Heilbronn, Germany, with Sander Gille, the Belgian pulled off a magical act of improvisation. Facing eventual finalists Kevin Krawietz and Andreas Mies, Vliegen hit one of the rarest shots in tennis, bringing the crowd at the Neckarcup to their feet. The 24-year-old's fast hands were on full display, as a Mies stab volley struck the net twice before Vliegen's quick instincts took over. As the ball - laden with backspin - hit the net on his side of the court, he incredibly carved it cross-court before it could bounce twice. Vliegen hit a terrific...
Sometimes success as a pro tennis player requires a little bit of luck, which Kevin Krawietz can attest to. After losing in the final round of qualifying at last week’s ATP Challenger Tour event in Eckental, Germany, the 24-year-old German made it into the main draw as a lucky loser. Krawietz took full advantage of the second chance, knocking off two seeded players on his way to a semi-final finish. At this week’s $75,000 Challenger in Ortisei, Italy, Krawietz is continuing to ride the momentum by defeating second seed Evgeny Donskoy of Russia on his way to another semi-final. “After I managed to get into the main draw in Eckental, I played a great first-round match. I've kept going from...
