August 10, 1986: Lendl's Revenge on Becker at Stratton Mountain
On this day, August 10, 1986, Ivan Lendl achieved a significant victory over Boris Becker in the final of the Stratton Mountain Open, with a score of 6-4, 7-6. This win was particularly meaningful for Lendl as it served as retribution for his loss to Becker in the Wimbledon final just a month prior, where Becker had secured a straight-sets victory (6-4, 6-3, 7-5).
The Stratton Mountain Open that year was a notable event, marked by the emergence of 16-year-old Andre Agassi, who impressed by defeating fifth seed Tim Mayotte. Becker, on his path to the final, demonstrated remarkable resilience by saving match points in both the third round against Kevin Curren and the semi-final in an intense match against John McEnroe.
The competition between these two prominent players extended beyond the court, spilling into press conferences where candid remarks were exchanged.
The Players: Ivan Lendl and Boris Becker
Ivan Lendl: The World's Top Player and Three-Time Grand Slam Champion
Born in 1960, Ivan Lendl held the world No. 1 ranking in August 1986. A consistent force in professional tennis since 1980, Lendl had amassed numerous ATP titles, including the Grand Prix Masters in 1981. Despite his success, it wasn't until 1984 that he claimed his first Grand Slam title at Roland-Garros, overcoming a two-set deficit in a memorable final against John McEnroe. He added another Grand Slam to his name at the US Open in 1985, defeating McEnroe again. In 1986, he won his second Roland-Garros title but was defeated by Becker in the Wimbledon final. Lendl was renowned for his powerful topspin forehand, aggressive yet consistent baseline game, and a groundbreaking level of professionalism, dedication to fitness, and meticulous training regimen.
Boris Becker: The Two-Time Reigning Wimbledon Champion
Boris Becker, born in 1967, made history in 1985 by becoming the youngest Wimbledon champion at 17, defeating Kevin Curren. His formidable serve, often followed by aggressive net play, earned him the nickname "Boom Boom." Becker was celebrated for his spectacular diving volleys, dramatic playing style, and emotional on-court presence. Following his Wimbledon triumph, he solidified his reputation by winning the Cincinnati title. He reached the Masters Cup final later that year, where he was defeated by Ivan Lendl. In 1986, Becker successfully defended his Wimbledon title against Lendl, establishing himself as the world's second-ranked player.
The Venue: Stratton Mountain
The Stratton Mountain Open, a hard-court tournament established in 1985, quickly became a prestigious event due to its favorable place in the tennis calendar and attractive prize money. Its early editions featured top players, with John McEnroe defeating Ivan Lendl in the 1985 final and the top two ranked players, Lendl and Becker, competing in the 1986 final.
Key Events: McEnroe's Exhausting Semi-final and Lendl's Victory
As Lendl and Becker met for the Stratton Mountain final on August 10, 1986, the tournament had already provided ample excitement. The event marked the comeback of former world No. 1 John McEnroe after a six-month hiatus. All three top players advanced to the semi-finals. McEnroe defeated the 16-year-old Andre Agassi, who had impressed throughout the qualifying rounds and defeated Tim Mayotte. Agassi's powerful returns even surprised McEnroe.
The semi-final clash between Becker and McEnroe was a highlight, with Becker emerging victorious after saving four match points in the final set tiebreak. The intense match, lasting two and a half hours, was followed by a heated exchange in the press conferences, as reported by the New York Times. Becker criticized McEnroe's attitude, while McEnroe urged Becker to earn respect. Becker admitted to feeling exhausted the morning of the final after his grueling semi-final match.
Lendl, motivated by his recent Wimbledon loss and the race for the world No. 1 ranking, was determined to win. He dominated the first set of the final 6-4. In the second set, Becker forced a tiebreak, but Lendl maintained his composure, securing a 7-0 victory in the tiebreak to win the championship. During the tiebreak, Becker's attempt to unsettle Lendl with comments about previous match point saves proved unsuccessful.
What Happened Next? Lendl Ends 1986 as World No. 1
The battle for the 1986 world No. 1 ranking, as Lendl had anticipated, was largely decided at the US Open. Becker was defeated in the semi-finals by Miloslav Mecir, who in turn lost to Lendl in the final. Lendl further solidified his No. 1 status by defeating Becker in straight sets in the Masters Cup final a few months later.
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