Homework is everything.
Coaching on tour takes on many aspects, and the one I thrive on is knowing your opponent. The first tournament I coached Kevin was in Delray back in February 2010, where he qualied and lost a tough first round to Argentine Leonardo Mayer (#69) 7-6 (7), 7-6 (2). Without giving too much away, let’s just say I really did my homework on that match to uncover why Kevin lost it match, and how to play Leonardo next time.
Fast forward to Toronto and Kevin just beat Leonardo (#68) 7-6 (2), 6-4 to advance to the 2nd round. As a coach, you are always looking to find a few points here and there in a match that can get your player over the line. The homework from February definitely made the difference in the 1st round.
Next up was #21 Sam Querrey, who Kevin took out 7-6 (4), 4-6, 6-4. This was another turn-around victory, as Kevin lost to Sam two weeks earlier in 3 sets in Los Angeles in the 2nd round.
Kevin’s 3rd round opponent was world #1 Rafael Nadal. Kevin lost 6-2, 7-6 (6) on a night match on center court, and definitely improved from the experience.
I wrote a detailed analysis of the match in the Brain Game members area which gives you an inside view of what it’s like to play the world #1. To become a member and read the detailed match review, please click here. You will also find insights about other players and matches from Toronto as well.
Kevin got 115 points from the tournament and improved his ranking from #87 to #77 with 4 quality wins and a tough loss. The ship is definitely sailing in the right direction. Well done coach Louis!
Toronto was a lot of fun, and it was great to spend some time with Canadian Davis Cup coach, Marty Laurandeau and his talented troop of players.
Thanks Toronto for another amazing tournament!