Last Updated on January 4, 2022
Russian tennis player Roman Safiullin defeated James Duckworth of Australia in the ATP Cup, which takes place in Sydney from 1 to 9 January. The Russian was 2-5 down in the first set, won four games in a row and served for the game. He scored two mini-breaks in the tie-break.
Safiullin, who is now No. 167 on the ATP World Tour rankings, beat a top-100 player for the second time at the tournament. Prior to the ATP Cup, he had only one such win in his career. He also won two consecutive ATP-level matches for the first time
Roman strikes again 💥
Russia’s new secret weapon Roman Safiullin tops James Duckworth 7-6 6-4 at #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/97HKCXgT7C
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 4, 2022
“It was a great match. I started off like I did the first one but I came back in the first set. In the second set it was a close match, but I pushed on at the end and won.
Physically I’m feeling good because I’ve been preparing for matches like this. So all’s well,” Roman commented on his victory.
Safiullin, a successful player of the national team at the ATP Cup, told the tournament press service about his hobbies. He admitted that he likes driving a motorcycle, even though it is dangerous.
“I love cars and motorcycles. It’s hard to own a motorcycle in Russia, because we have such a winter. There are only three or four months for riding. When you’re talking about a professional tennis player, it’s pretty dangerous. One mistake and that’s it. You could lose your career or even your life.
When I have time, I watch movies. I’ve watched “Harry Potter” many times. I’ve seen it three or four times now, but I still like it. When I go to Russia, I watch it with my wife.
Also the new “Matrix” came out recently. I haven’t seen the movie yet because my wife wants to see it too. We’ll go see it together when I get back,”-said Roman.
Safiullin plays doubles with Daniil Medvedev, and they already have one win over the French team.
“It gives you confidence – especially in doubles. You feel that he’s the second racket of the world and it adds to my emotions, helps me reach for his level,” Roman commented on playing together with Daniil.
