Played smartly in tough conditions: Marcos Baghdatis

Marcos Baghdatis has fashioned many fightbacks in his professional career. The Cypriot famously survived three match points to beat then world no. 1 Roger Federer for the first time, 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(4) at the BNP Paribas Open in 2010. The match was a rematch of the 2006 Australian Open final, which Federer won 5-7, 7-5, 6-0, 6-2.

On Monday night Baghdatis braved humid conditions to lead another fightback for his team Punjab Marshalls in the Champions Tennis League Season 2 opener here on Monday. The 30-year-old starred in a stunning 21-19 win over Mumbai Masters after his side were trailing 6-10.

He played the lead role in the mixed doubles and men’s doubles wins and then sealed it in the deciding men’s singles set with tiebreak decision over Santiago Giraldo 5-4 (5-3). Baghdatis and Elina Svitolina dismantled Flavia Pennetta and Giraldo by winning last three straight games after they were level 2-2.

Pennetta had earlier defeated Svitolina 5-2 in the women’s singles set. Baghdatis combined with Saketh Myneni to beat Giraldo and Sriram Balaji 5-3. Earlier, Mumbai Blasters’ skipper Richard Krajicek had prevailed over Greg Rusedski 5-4 (5-3) in the opening legends singles set.

“The conditions were tough, hot and humid. We were just recovering from jet-lag after arriving in the city a day ago. But it is always nice to help the team win a tie. I’m glad to have won it after trailing 0-2,” Baghdatis said.

Baghdatis was humble enough to acknowledge the contribution of his partners. “Svitlona is more aggressive. It allows me to be more relaxed. We have great chemistry together. Saketh has one of the best serve in doubles. He gives so many free points. I have played with him last year and we enjoy playing together,” he said.

The 2006 Australian Open finalist said he had to use his experience and play smart tennis to see off 27-year-old Giraldo.

“The game against Giraldo was tough. He was going for a lot and hitting the ball really hard. The ball was flying a bit and we had to control it. It was a long time since we played in conditions like this. I had to use my experience, be smart and find way to win the game,” he said.