Ivo Karlovic becomes oldest man in more than four decades to reach an ATP final
Friday 4 January 2019 18:17, UK
Veteran giant Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man in more than four decades to reach an ATP final after beating Steve Darcis at the Maharashtra Open in Pune.
Karlovic, who turns 40 next month, follows in the footsteps of Australian legend Ken Rosewall who reached a tour-level final aged 43 in 1977.
The 6ft 11in Karlovic defeated Darcis of Belgium 7-6 (7-3) 4-6 6-3 in the first semi-final of the tournament held in India.
"Yes, I know that I am old. But I am happy that I am still here in all these years with [many] ups and downs and injuries. And I am able to do this here is unbelievable," Karlovic said after the win.
"I have been calm and it has helped me in my career."
Karlovic, currently ranked No 100, hit 33 aces in the one hour 55 minute battle against Darcis, who missed all of 2018 due to injury.
The Croatian, who has now reached seven of his 19 ATP Tour finals after turning 35, will play world No 6 Kevin Anderson from South Africa after he overcame defending champion Gilles Simon of France 6-3 7-6 (7-3).
We have every major tennis event covered from all angles via our website skysports.com/tennis. On the move? Head to our app for mobile devices and iPad, or follow our Twitter account @SkySportsTennis to join in the conversation.
