31.05.2010 18:16:47 | Seed no. 1 of UniCredit Czech Open, Radek Shtepanek, successfully entered into the tournament. He beat Spaniard Alberto Martin 6:3, 7:6. "I am glad it’s over and that I managed to win in two sets. I was on the court for an hour and a half and although I had trained a lot I wasn’t sure how it would go in a real match," said satisfied Shtepanek after the match. Let us remind that he played his last match on March 9.
Why did Radek Shtepanek chose Prostejov: “I have a strong a relationship to this tournament. I have won the title twice here and it was clear to me that I am not in a shape good enough to take part in Rolland Garros in Paris. I have a good reputation among players and it wouldn’t be fair if I occupied a space instead of players who are better prepared, I don’t feel fit enough for a grand slam event so far. That’s why I have prolonged my rest for a week and decided to start in Prostejov. It is an advantage for me that the matches are played for two winning sets only. I have spent a few years of my career here and I have wonderful memories of the tennis area and people here.”
As usual, head of the Prostejov’s tennis promised Radek a private plane to get to another tournament in Halle in case he wins. “Of course, I would like to use this offer but there are four difficult matches to go and that’s a long way to go ...”
