In a world where professional tennis players traverse the globe with dizzying frequency, genuine enchantment with a tournament host city can be a rare sight. Yet, Jan-Lennard Struff, the seasoned German professional ranked 98th in the world, has found exactly that in Almaty, Kazakhstan. His inaugural visit to the Central Asian metropolis for the ATP 250 event has unfolded not just as a competitive challenge, but as an unexpectedly delightful experience, leaving him thoroughly impressed with both the organization and the breathtaking locale.
A Sanctuary Amidst the Peaks: Almaty`s Unexpected Charm
Struff`s glowing review of Almaty reads like a postcard. “For me, it`s an amazing tournament,” he declared, his words painted with a sense of genuine discovery. The city, nestled at the foothills of the majestic Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, has clearly cast a spell. “First of all, I have to mention the fantastic views, the amazing hotel, great food, great facilities. The view of the mountains is just unbelievable.” It`s a sentiment many travelers share, but coming from an athlete focused on the intricacies of baseline rallies, it speaks volumes about the city`s intrinsic beauty.
Beyond the panoramic vistas, Struff noted the subtle yet significant details that enhance a player`s stay. The hospitality, the culinary offerings, and the quality of the tournament facilities all received high marks. “All the people are friendly,” he added, completing a picture of an event where the off-court experience is as meticulously curated as the on-court action. Even the late-autumn climate, with its crisp days and warm sun offset by cooler temperatures, added to the unique atmosphere, making it a picturesque backdrop for high-stakes tennis.
Battling at Altitude: A First-Round Testament to Grit
While the scenery might be serene, the competition on Almaty`s courts is anything but. Struff`s opening match against American Mackenzie McDonald was a grueling affair, a three-set marathon that tested his resolve. “It was a tough match,” Struff admitted, recalling their recent encounter at the US Open, also a “very tough battle.” Losing the first set 2-6, Struff found himself needing to dig deep, especially considering the unique conditions.
Playing at altitude inherently changes the game; the thinner air makes the ball fly faster and bounce higher, demanding a precise blend of power and control. Struff, having arrived earlier to adapt, felt he had a slight edge in preparation over McDonald, who had just come off a Challenger final. Yet, McDonald`s confidence was evident, pushing Struff to his limits. The German`s ability to “fight back from 2-6 in the first set and save three break points in the first game of the second set” proved pivotal. His high first-serve percentage, a critical weapon in Almaty`s conditions, helped him gain rhythm and ultimately clinch the victory (2/6, 6/3, 6/4), a testament to his tactical acumen and mental fortitude.
The Next Peak: A Clash with the Champion
With a hard-fought victory under his belt, Struff now sets his sights on an even grander challenge: a second-round encounter with Russia`s Karen Khachanov, the tournament`s defending champion and a top-10 ranked player. “Karen is an amazing player, I think,” Struff acknowledged, fully aware of the formidable task ahead. Their previous matches have been “very, very close, very tight,” suggesting a history of intense, powerful exchanges.
Struff anticipates a high-octane affair, a battle of heavy hitters where “there won`t be many slow shots.” Khachanov`s potent game, characterized by immense power and energy, will meet Struff`s own aggressive style head-on. It`s a match that promises fireworks and tactical intrigue. For Struff, building on his recent good form, including strong performances in the outdoor season and his challenging first-round win in Almaty, will be crucial. The prospect of facing a defending champion in such a picturesque and well-organized event only adds to the narrative of what is shaping up to be a truly memorable tournament experience for Jan-Lennard Struff.
