European Championships | 17 Aug 2022

Timo BOLL: I was warned about KULCZYCKI

In the opening round of the Men's singles event top favorites justified their status , but it was not easy round for most of them.

Top seeded Truls MOREGARDH of Sweden overcame Tamas LAKATOS of Hungary in six games, whilst defending champion Timo BOLL needed full seven games to overcame spirited game of Samuel KULCZYCKI of Poland. In real drama that kept the spectators at the edge of their seats German record holder in number of titles in Europe prevailed.

“I studied his game and I was warned. He is very good with the left handed players; already had beat KARLSSON, DUDA...He played very good in the opening game., He put me under severe pressure, but as it is case with young players, in the finish he hesitated to win. I know that feeling from my early ages. I have been there too,” said BOLL.

For the last moment it was not clear should be Timo capable to play at the Championships in Munich.

“Twice in had broken ribs and I missed few weeks of training. I did not start well, but it happened before, it was not something that scared me., I just keep on playing,” said BOLL.

On Friday Patrick FRANZISKA become father of little Tyler. Today he entered the venue for a first time.

“I was not sleeping at all. It is amazing feeling,” said Patrick.

He beat Pavel SIRUCEK if Czech Republic in straight games.

“We were at the training together two weeks ago. It was not easy to play against him at all no meter what the result predicts,” said Patrick.

Alexis LEBRUN of France continued with good games. He beat Belgium's Martin ALLEGRO in five games.

“I am little bit tired now. It has been long day with a lot of difficult matches. However, I won them all so I am happy now. Match against Martin was very difficult in a way that I had to think a lot. Only after third game I managed to get into the rhythm and to control the match,” said LEBRUN.