betprepare.com

Stepanek: Goffin's return is top level

The Belgian had quite a few problems with the younger version of Isner. His opponent was taking a lot of risk in that match, while Stepanek no longer has success with top players but he can still put up a good fight

Getty Images

Stepanek

He tried as had as it was necessary against Tursunov, who came here for the big check on account of protected ranking. Still, the Russian is a dangerous player who can do well even with such a relaxed attitude:

- It was close in the second set, I missed out on some break points in the third but I'm happy. I finished the match with three straight aces.

He is 59-119 against Top 20 players. His record over the past three seasons is just 1-13 but there were quite a few close defeats there, especially the one to Murray at Roland Garros last season.

- We all know how good Goffin is but I think people do not appreciate his return enough. He is top quality in that segment - Stepanek said.

Goffin 

Even though it was expected he would struggle on return, Goffin ended up struggling with his tall opponents' overall game. He even got quite close to losing:

- I was not surprised by such strong fight on his part. He is a very tricky server with a great forehand. He had nothing to lose and he hit hard. He can really hit hard. Luckily, I was focused and calm in the end.

Goffin was 28-7 against players outside of Top 50. The defeats to Donaldson, Jaziri and Granollers are the ones that stand out.