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French Open was their moment of glory

May 22, 2008

Believe it or faint

Gaston Gaudio
(Argentina) in 2004

Before you ask (who?), let's say he was the men's singles champion at Roland Garros just four years back, before the onset of the Rafael Nadal-era.

And the Argentine was the most unlikely of champions. With no major credentials whatsoever prior (or after) his French Open triumph, it is still difficult to believe that Gaudio actually won a major.

Having said that, it is also imperative to say that the final was also one compatriot Guillermo Coria (the favourite to win that year) lost. By saying so, we're not taking anything away from Gaudio's triumph but simply stating facts.

Also read: Paes going for gold at Games

Having dropped the opening two sets 0-6, 3-6, Gaudio benefited immensely when Coria got injured in the third set. Taking advantage, the Argentine pocketed the third set 6-4 and the fourth as well (6-1), as Coria made no effort, preferring to conserve his energy to give it all in the decider. In the fifth, Gaudio had to save match points but eventually held on to win 8-6, thereby becoming the first man ever to win a major final after dropping the opening set at love.

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