Since turning pro in 2005, Roberto Bautista Agut has won four singles titles on the ATP World Tour. Remarkably, two of his four have come in 2016. But throughout his years on tour he has been in the shadows of fellow countrymen David Ferrer, and most notably, Rafael Nadal.
Starting A New Trend
Despite being an ambassador of one of the most in-style and trendy clothing brands in Lacoste, Bautista Agut is starting a trend on his own. Most Spanish tennis players feel at their best on clay, while the current world number 18 prefers hard courts. His hard court liking shows considering his two titles this year have been on hard courts. He displayed his great stamina and consistency last year against world number one Novak Djokovic in Flushing Meadows, where he pushed the eventual champion to a tougher match than expected.
The Spanish number three has proven his willingness to battle through tough matches. His positive on-court attitude will pay off for him in the long run. For the past 11 years, Bautista Agut has sat in the dark out of the spotlight. With Spain being a holder of more players in the top 100 than any other nation, other Spanish players should be noticed for their accomplishments. It is not a matter of being the center of attention; it is a matter of what is right. Fifteen Spaniards hold a top 100 ranking, and with their continuous efforts and hard work, a little more acknowledgement would be completely necessary.
Spotlight is shifting
In an interview with ABC Spain, Bautista Agut said, “It is very difficult to have a sportsman like Rafa Nadal. And I understand that you speak more about him. But we players are so many, we are the country with more players in the top 100. And you have to speak more about it.”
When asked about Nadal’s recent losing ways, he admitted that it should be tough for the Spanish number one because of his consistent winning ways throughout his career. But as a friend and Davis Cup teammate, Bautista Agut was positive on the future of the world number five, Rafael Nadal.
The 27-year-old is confident in the future of his country’s tennis players, as well. Spain continues to have young tennis players produced from their nation. Most of the Spaniards on tour now are experienced veterans, but more and more rising stars continue to develop on tour. Spain is definitely capable of having another generation of powerhouse tennis players, but greatness always takes time. The future is bright for Spanish tennis.
