Winning Runner Up, Indonesian Tennis Player Justin Barki Exceeds Expectations

– Indonesian mainstay tennis player, Justin Barki (23) must be satisfied just being in position runner-up first single series for Harum Energy Men’s World Tennis Tour, Sunday (18/6/2023).

In the final, the recipient of the wild card facility was defeated by the first seed, Omar Jasika, from Australia on the tennis court at The Sultan Hotel and Residence, Jakarta in straight sets, 2-6 3-6.

Nevertheless, the left-hander is still grateful to be able to advance to the final round of the singles sector for the first time in his professional career.

“Yes, of course I’m very happy. The expectation for this week is to get as many points as possible. Only today, the opponent was far superior in terms of mental and physical,” he said after the match.

Seven hundred more than international rankings adrift, Justin, who is currently ranked 1043 in the world singles, was able to present a fierce battle, keeping pace with opponents who were entrenched in position 279. Justin held the first two games to a draw in the first set.

It’s just that in the fifth game, he couldn’t avoid his opponent’s break even though he had been pursuing small points. The opponent who is also left-handed was able to win four consecutive games to finish the opening set 6-2.

“Actually, to be honest, the most difficult thing was yesterday (Saturday) where I had to play twice because previously I had to be delayed due to rain. The first one, I played for an hour and a half. The second, I played for about three and a half hours. So, for recovery in twelve The clock was not easy. Last night, I tried my best. But, yes, unfortunately, I haven’t been able to recover one hundred percent,” said the alumni of Princeton University (USA).

In the second set, Indonesia’s second best singles was left behind, 0-5. Moreover, in the middle of the set, he groaned in pain in his hip, a recurrence from yesterday’s semifinals. But Justin was still able to break the opponent’s match point twice.

The Bachelor of Economics recorded a break for the second point after maintaining serve. A forehand return service that was unable to cross the net ended Justin’s struggles, losing the second set, 3-6.

For this achievement, Justin gives credit to his family and coach. The owner of eight ITF series doubles titles did not expect to be able to restore his performance after taking a break from the tennis court due to busy work after completing college.

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