Dimitar’s Dream: Kuzmanov Stuns Darcis At The ATP Cup

Entering the ATP Cup, Dimitar Kuzmanov did not own an ATP Tour win. Now, the 26-year-old has two.

Kuzmanov defeated former World No. 38 Steve Darcis 6-0, 6-3 on Tuesday in Sydney to give Bulgaria a 1-0 lead against Belgium. It was a massive win for the Bulgarians, who can clinch a spot in the Final Eight by triumphing against the Belgians.

If Belgium comes back to win 2-1, Great Britain will top the group and earn their spot in the Final Eight, which will also take place in Sydney at Ken Rosewall Arena.

Kuzmanov battled hard in his opening match of the event against Great Britain’s Cameron Norrie, falling in three sets. But instead of getting down on himself, Kuzmanov has raised his level even higher. The World No. 417 defeated Moldova’s Alexander Cozbinov on Sunday, and he needed just 77 minutes to dismiss Darcis, who once beat Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon, on Tuesday.

The Belgian typically frustrates opponents with his slice backhand, forcing opponents out of their comfort zone. But Kuzmanov was undeterred, and it was Darcis who made unforced errors during the crucial moments. He gave away the decisive break in the second set by missing a tight forehand into the net, giving Kuzmanov a 5-3 lead. On his second match point, the Bulgarian fell to the court in celebration when Darcis mishit another forehand.

Kuzmanov struggled to contain his emotions, seemingly shedding tears on the court before embracing his teammates near their Team Zone. Former World No. 3 Grigor Dimitrov will next face Belgian No. 1 David Goffin. Dimitrov leads their ATP Head2Head series 8-1.