WIMBLEDON, JUNE 27: Number 5 seed Richard Krajicek originally had a different idea about why Court No 2 is called the graveyard court. He thought the reason why it's called graveyard is because The All England Club was always digging up the court and creating `worse bounces.' Krajicek now clearly comprehends the real reason why the court has the undignified reputation -- it's often the burial place for seeds and former champions.The outstanding play of qualifier Lorenzo Manta of Switzerland cremated Krajicek Saturday with the No. 196 ranked Swiss beating the 1996 Wimbledon champ 6-3, 7-6 (7-5), 4-6, 4-6, 6-4.
Krajicek was definitely not expecting such a tough match. ``I was surprised at how well he played because I was expecting him to get nervous,'' said the Dutchman. Manta is playing in his second Grand Slam, having qualified for Wimbledon in 1996, but failing to venture beyond the first round. Prior to this win, he's had a dismal win/loss record of 0-11 in Grand Slams, ATP Tour events, and Davis Cupmatches. Yesterday's victory will most likely propel Manta from a ranking of No 196 to No 116. The Swiss qualifier goes on to face a fourth round match-up with No 11 seed Gustavo Kuerten of Brazil, who beat qualifier Nenad Zimonjic 6-4, 6-4, 6-2.
Copyright © 1999 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.