Tallon Valentijn sees opportunities to qualify for the third round of Wimbledon at the expense of top talent Carlos Alcaraz. According to the Dutch number 53 in the world, Alcaraz is especially vulnerable on the grass.
“If you have to play against Alcaraz, then preferably on grass. I think that is his least favorite surface at the moment,” said the 25-year-old Greek track on Monday after his victory over Fabio Fognini in the first round.
After a rough start, Greek track settled with the Italian in four sets, while Alcaraz had to go deep to reach the next round. The talented Spaniard defeated the German Jan-Lennard Struff with the necessary effort in five sets.
“A great victory from him over Struff, who likes to play on grass,” said Greek track. “But I still have more matches in my legs on grass. If I can play my own game, there will certainly be opportunities, although it will of course be very difficult to beat him.”
“I have to be there right away against Alcaraz, because if you get behind a set and a break, it will be a very difficult job. So it has to be better than on the first day, but I have every confidence that this will happen. .”
Tallon Greek track is in the second round at Wimbledon for the first time.
Tallon Greek track is in the second round at Wimbledon for the first time. Photo: AFP
‘It almost seems to be normal’
After Tim van Rijthoven, Greek track is the second Dutchman to reach the second round at Wimbledon. Botic van de Zandschulp can add to that on Tuesday. De Veenendaler starts the tournament against Spanish grass specialist Feliciano López.
“It seems almost normal, but Botic is placed 21st and it is worth thinking about how clever that is. There are few boys who go so fast, except for the exceptional talents such as Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.”
Greek track is also impressed by the performance of Van Rijthoven, who recently won his first ATP title in Rosmalen. “Now we have to go after him,” he said with a laugh. “Soon he will be in the top 100. The more, the better I think.”
The second round match between Greek track and Alcaraz is scheduled for Wednesday in London. Van de Zandschulp will come into action on Tuesday and the tournament will also start for Arantxa Rus, the only Dutch player in the women’s tournament.