|
Forgotten Australian tennis star Bernard Tomic reached his most important professional final in six years, but ended up setting a very embarrassing record in the process.
On Monday morning, Tomic, 31, was crushed in record time by rising American star Learner Tien in the final of the Fairfield Challenger in San Francisco, losing 6-0, 6-1 in just 39 minutes.
The former world junior No. 1 said he didn't have the “legs” to keep up with his 18-year-old opponent after the grueling tournament.
“When I lost the first two or three games, mentally it was hard to stay on track,” Tomic said later.
– I'm sorry I couldn't keep my legs.
Tennis reporter Bastien Fachan commented on the situation, noting that the result was the same as when the Australian recorded the fastest defeat in ATP Tour history.
It was an interesting tournament for Tomic, who was once considered one of the most exciting players Australia has ever produced.
Just over two years ago, Tomic found himself in the first half of the 19th century, with many predicting the end of his tennis career.
Bernard Tomic (pictured) set an unwanted record in his first ATP Challenger final since 2018, losing the match in record time
However, his performance in the Fairfield tournament was impressive and if he won, he could fight to qualify for the Australian Open early next year.
Tennis commentator Mike Cation noted how quickly the final was played.
“It looks like we just made a presentation,” Cation said.
“I mean, A) Apprentice is so good, but B) that's what happens at the end of the week when someone who is a veteran has put in that much effort during the week, it's another level to keep up with a player of Tien's apprentice caliber.
“It will be a question for Bernie in terms of moving forward here, but a fantastic week, first final in six years, since 2018. It's certainly a great step, but this day belongs to the Tien student.”
Tomic earned 44 ranking points in the tournament, bringing him closer to the top 200 than at any time in the last four years.
Earlier this year, the controversial Australian opened up about the mental struggles he has faced over the years.
The former junior world No. 1 said after the match that he didn't have the “legs” to keep up with his 18-year-old opponent
The controversial Australian (pictured with girlfriend Keely Hannah) achieved his best result in many years
“The route is very difficult. Tennis is a very isolated sport. It's very difficult mentally and you're traveling alone,” Tomic told Sportskeeda.
You don't play a team sport like soccer or basketball. You are alone. This involves a lot of traveling and a lot of time spent alone. You need to learn how to feel good mentally and when to recharge your batteries.
“I also fought for three to four years. I was able to turn it around and feel better mentally. When you travel from a young age for many, many years, it can really take a toll on your psyche.
“Sports can really exhaust you. You have to figure out what's best for you mentally and always find a way to stay positive and move forward. In tennis you need to be in good mental condition.
