Krawietz/Pütz Fall Short in Rome Round of 16

For Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz, the ATP Masters in Rome came to an end in the round of 16. The German Davis Cup duo lost in the second round to Austrians Alexander Erler and Lucas Miedler in two close sets, 6-7, 6-7.

After recent poor results in Munich and Madrid, Krawietz and Pütz had initially cleared the first hurdle in Rome, but were unable to carry their improved form through to the quarterfinals. As the sixth-seeded doubles team, they entered the match as favorites but ultimately had to admit defeat.

The match turned into a real nail-biter and lasted nearly two hours. The first set in particular showed just how close the contest was: In the tiebreak, Krawietz and Pütz squandered two set points and ultimately lost it 10-12. They had chances in the second set as well, but were unable to capitalize on several break opportunities as their opponents kept their cool at decisive moments.

As a result, Krawietz and Pütz miss out on a spot in the quarterfinals and must settle for the round of 16. The Austrians, on the other hand, advance and will face either an American-Croatian or an all-American duo in the next round.

The German duo now has the opportunity to continue working on their form at the Hamburg Open in order to prepare optimally for the upcoming French Open.