smart Major Hamburg winners reflect on amazing victory

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Phil Dalhausser was in unbeatable form in the final. Photocredit: Joerg Mitter.

Victorious smart Major Hamburg winners Nick Lucena and Phil Dalhausser felt their never-say-die attitude in the first set of Sunday’s final was the crucial factor in their gold medal triumph.

The Americans were up against it in the opening set on Center Court as Alex Brouwer and Robert Meeuwsen cranked up the pressure to create four set points.

But Lucena and Dalhausser dug deep and fended off the Dutch attack to save all four points and hit back to take a thrilling first set 29-27.

“Momentum’s a big part in any sport,” said a delighted Dalhausser. “We took that advantage in the second set and never let go.

“I feel as though we played our best and got our reward and the fans were great, it was amazing to see so many people here.”

And just like he said after the semifinal, Lucena paid tribute to his partner’s impeccable performance at the net.

“Phil came up with the ace at the end of the first set and he took over in the second with his blocks – it was fun to play behind,” said Nick. “Winning the first set gives you momentum going in the second set and they were serving really tough.”

Understandably there was dejection for the Dutch

“Those decisive points in the first set were always going to make a big impact,” said a disappointed Meeuwsen. “Perhaps we needed to stay calm and next time we’ll have to make a better plan.”

His teammate Brouwer added: “I think after the first set the mental aspect was difficult for us. We didn’t start off well and we gave them space. They started to serve better and our service then fell but we still showed a good level in the tournament, it’s just sad we lost this final.”

Phil and Nick celebrate after winning gold. Photocredit: Joerg Mitter.