World Championships | 22 Apr 2019

El Clasico: KARAKASEVIC vs. MAZE

LIEBHERR 2019 ITTF World Championships

 

The hall B was the place to be in the early afternoon hours on the second day of play at the LIEBHERR 2019 ITTF World Championships in Budapest. The crowd, the photographers and cameraman, all gathered around the table 18 to watch the duel between 37 years old bronze medalist at the 2005 World Championships and 2009 European Champion and 44 years old 2011 European bronze medalist Aleksandar KARAKASEVIC.

 

After epic fight Serbia’s player prevailed (6-11, 7-11, 16-14, 8-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-2). After 3-2 and 6-3 in the sixth game, KARAKASEVIC called for time out and completely turned the course of the match. MAZE lost the control over the game.

 

“We used to play so many times against each other. Last time when MAZE returned to the table tennis at the European Championships we meet also in the Group stage. He destroyed me then, “said KARAKASEVIC.

 

It has been 10 years since MAZE played at the World Championships last time. The injuries ruined his career.

 

“It is difficult for both of us to play at such conditions. The balls without the spin, when we are forced to go with full power are more suitable for younger players,” added KARAKASEVIC.

 

MAZE had control at the beginning: “He played very well. I literally stole the third and fifth game, but after that I was in control.”

 

MAZE pointed that he did failed to produce good game in the finish.

 

“I started good, but eventually I struggled with my shape. When I lost my strength I also lost my focus,” said MAZE.