Millman and Simon play out epic 46-shot rally in Sofia marathon

ATP Sofia Open second round
MILLMAN d. SIMON 7-5, 6-7, 6-2

• The key information: Simon saved match point in the second set to stay alive after a crazy 46-shot rally.
• You will also learn: Millman had to save four match points before finally putting his man away.
• Why read this story: This was a marathon three-setter and proof there is still fight in Simon yet.

This was a true battle of two real back-court sluggers, and few of those watching from the stands would have foreseen what was to come when Millman lead by a set and 2-0. Yet Simon is renowned for his fighting qualities, and the fact that he is still going strong at 35 years of age is testament to that.

Two sets. Two hours and 30 minutes 😳

Millman and Simon are going the distance in every sense of the word…#SofiaOpen pic.twitter.com/sL6S9MELpg

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) November 11, 2020

Back he came, saving two match points in the 12^th game, the second after a scarcely believable 46-shot rally that will surely go down as one of the indoor greats in terms of effort from both players.

Having hauled himself heroically back into the match, the effort perhaps took its toll on the older man going into the third and the unforced errors, particularly on second serve, made the difference as Millman eventually put his man away.

The warm handshake at the end of the match was testimony to the respect they have for one another and Millman now goes on to face Vasek Pospisil, conqueror of Jan-Lennard Struff, in the quarter-final.

Millman eventually delivers 📬@johnhmillman is the first winner of the day in Sofia, outlasting Simon 7-5 6-7(3) 6-2 in… 3 hours and 15 minutes!#SofiaOpen pic.twitter.com/dTs6RgQs6o

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) November 11, 2020

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