Fugate Outlasts Pollock

Fugate Outlasts Pollock in Tense Second Round Match
© Colette Lewis 2005--
Carson CA--

Marcus Fugate might have arrived in Carson physically tired, having played three straight three-set matches to win the Luxilon Cup, the small invitational junior event held in conjunction with the Nasdaq 100 professional event last week. But emotionally, the experience gained there may have been the difference in his 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 win over Conor Pollock in the second round of the ITF Spring Championships.

"I was cool under the pressure," said the 17-year-old from New York, who trains at the IMG/Bollettieri Academy. "I knew what to do and even if it had gone to a breaker, I knew I would win."


Pollock, a 17-year-old from San Antonio who will enter Texas A & M in the fall, displayed an impressive serve and volley game, and Fugate, having never faced him, took a full set to get his bearings. With momentum on Fugate's side as they started the third set, Pollock hung tough, and by five all, it was down to who could fight off the nerves and hit the key shot or two. And having been in that position three times last week, Fugate was the more comfortable, breaking and holding for the win.

In addition to junior tournaments, Fugate has recently competed in several Futures events in Texas and he credits that experience with contributing to his recent junior success. "I lost two three setters in Texas," he said, "and it made me aware how mentally tough you have to be on every point to compete on that level."