UTS1 Day 9 preview: Elliot Benchetrit “The Underdog” vs Feliciano Lopez “El Torero”

Two players that have thrilled in every sense of the word at UTS will now have their chance to say a fitting farewell as El Torero Felicano Lopez and the Underdog Elliot Benchetrit get set to lock horns with pride on the line on Day 9.

Pete Odgers, UTS commentator, analyses the match:

“Lopez lost so many matches in sudden death. He’ll be desperately hoping that he doesn’t get a sudden death again. But he’s played some terrific tennis, volleying like the champion that he is.”

“Whereas for Benchetrit, he surprised a few. He’s outside the world’s top 200 but he’s someone who really royalty entertain both on the court and off the court. He is awkward to play against and I am sure Lopez will feel that.”

“Benchetrit possibly is the revelation of the tournament”

If it hasn’t been for three sudden death losses, Lopez might be singing a different tune. But as good as Lopez has been, he’s not been able to avoid getting crushed at crunch time.

“He’s a really nice player, he won slams in doubles”, Elliot Benchtrit told us. “So many good serves, so many good volleys in his life. I think we’ll have a lot of fun on Saturday.”

Can El Torero reverse his fortune against the 21-year-old Underdog. A player who has opened eyes
with his unorthodox tactics and trick shots artistry.

“Benchetrit possibly is the revelation of the tournament”, stands Pete Odgers. “I don’t think too many were expecting to see what we saw from him. He’s not intimidated by playing high-ranked opponent at all.”

“I think they have to change my name now”

“They don’t have fear, they are very young, they go for the shots, Feliciano Lopez told us. I’m expecting another tough match for sure.”

“I think they have to change my name now”, claims Benchetrit. “The Unexpected, I don’t know.”

With neither player willing to give an inch before they’ve made a grand exit, expect a tense tussle as these two top-notch talents square off for the first time.