Mitchell Krueger blasts home crowd in Delray Beach after receiving no support

Exactly 20 years ago, the Americans had three players in the top-10 of the ATP ranking list, with Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras leading the field and Todd Martin who was there to follow them. In February 2010, the greatest tennis nation had only three players in the top-50, losing the edge to the rest of the world when Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi retired and failing to produce a Major champion since Andy Roddick at the US Open 2003. In the last 15 seasons, the Americans have claimed miserable four Masters 1000 titles, unable to challenge Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray at premium ATP events despite holding three on the beloved hard courts. The new generation has made some changes towards the more successful development led by Taylor Fritz, Reilly Opelka, Frances Tiafoe and Tommy Paul who are still not ready to fight for the notable titles and challenge the rivals from the top.

To tell the truth, the American crowd doesn't like tennis as they did in the past when they supported the legends of our sport, mostly not bothered to watch the upcoming competitors who are trying to restore at least something from the glory days. World no. 216 Mitchell Krueger couldn't follow his compatriot Noah Rubin into the main draw at the ATP 250 event in Delray Beach, losing a tight encounter to Cameron Norrie 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 in just under two and a half hours. Mitchell had his chances in this one, having an early lead in the deciding set before Norrie fought back and claimed the tie break 7-5 to move over the top and reach the main action. After the clash, Krueger posted a tweet about lack of support in front of the home fans and against a non-American player, wondering what he ever did wrong to Florida, one of the most popular destinations for all tennis lovers across the USA. 

"It's crazy to me that an American can be playing a match in America against a non-American opponent and get absolutely zero crowd support. I can guarantee I wouldn't be getting any chants in London. Florida, what did I ever do to you?"

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/321xQue