By Erik Gudris
Friday, Aug. 9, 2013
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Vasek Pospisil finds himself the story of the tournament so far at the Rogers Cup in Montreal. But just how well do you know this rising Canadian star?
1. Vancouver Vasek: Pospisil was born in Vernon, British Columbia, on June 23, 1990. Though he grew up in Vancouver as a young kid, he now lists Freeport, Bahamas, as his official residence.
2. Early Years: Both of Pospisil's parents are of Czech heritage. Vasek's father is a tennis coach. From 15 to 18, Pospisil trained in Prostejov, Czech Republic.
3. Davis Cup Glory: Pospisil first earned recognition for his efforts playing on the Canadian Davis Cup team. In 2011, when Canada faced Israel, Pospisil won two singles rubbers and a doubles rubber with Daniel Nestor to lead his squad to victory.
4. 2013 Season: The Canadian is poised for a good week in Montreal after reaching the semifinals in Bogota and then winning the Vancouver Challenger. Those results prompted Tennis Canada to award Pospisil a wildcard into the Rogers Cup.
5. Breakthrough Week: Pospisil beat his first top 20 player when he knocked out John Isner in his opening round match in Montreal. After defeating Radek Stepanek in the next round, Pospisil then earned his first top 10 win in a tense three set victory over Tomas Berdych. That result sent Pospisil into his first ever ATP 1000 event quarterfinal.
6. On Beating Berdych: "This win is the best of my whole career, especially in front of my home crowd in Canada. It's a lot of emotions. It's my best win in singles."
7. On His Confidence: "I feel I can play with anybody now. Even going into the match, I was confident. I wasn't really sure what to expect because I've never played someone that good from the baseline. But the key was really not thinking too much out there. When there are big moments, stick to the patterns, try to be solid. Very happy right now."
8. Idol Worship: Pospisil's favorite players growing up were Pat Rafter and Roger Federer.
9. Favorites: His favorite shot is his forehand and his favorite Grand Slam is the US Open.
10. Social Savvy: Follow Pospisil on Twitter.
(Photo Credit: Erik Gudris) |