Camden Riviere - Welcome back!
The 2012 US Professional Singles playing for the Schochet Cup is now in the record books. After nine days of exciting matches, Camden Riviere took top honors, defeating Bryn Sayers in a four set final – 6/1, 5/6, 6/2, 6/3.
Riviere got off to a fast start in the first set, dominating the service end and generally not allowing Sayers to find his game. Serving tight railroads, Riviere controlled the set from the service end. Taking control of the set and advantage of Sayers’ loose balls, Riviere took the first set 6/1.
Sayers found his groove in the second set. Using a variety of serves, he settled on the railroad as the best offense. He kept the set close, denying Riviere a 3/1 lead. At 5-all, Sayers served better and played more consistently, avoiding the penthouse as he had not done in the first set. Second set to Sayers, 6/5.
In the third set, Riviere played more aggressively, putting all the pressure on Sayers. Riviere won the set 6/2.
In the final set, Riviere used his tight railroad serve and strong retrieving skills to his advantage. Sayers tried to make a comeback, but Riviere kept the pressure on. Serving tight and playing consistent percentage tennis for the final half of the set, Riviere took the set and the match, claiming his third consecutive US Pro Singles/ Schochet Cup title.
The real story of the final, however, is the comeback story. Riviere is coming off a nine-month layoff from tennis due to wrist tendonitis and a shoulder injury. For a time, it was thought that he might not ever return to tennis. He has, and in a big way, knocking off the #2 ranked worldwide player – Steve Virgona in the semis and the #3 ranked player – Bryn Sayers in the final. Despite the layoff, Riviere has clearly not lost any of his competitive fire nor lively on-court presence! Welcome back Camden!
In the Satellite Draw, Gabe Kinzler defeated Josh Bainton in straight sets, 6/3, 6/1.
As always, thanks to all the sponsors, the National Tennis Club and Rich Smith, the tournament organizer, for putting on a fantastic week. Finally, no report would be complete without acknowledging the primary sponsor – Jay Schochet – for his continuing support of the US Pro Singles. Jay was on hand for the trophy presentation on Sunday, as the Schochet Cup trophy was presented to Camden Riviere for the third consecutive year!