OPEN TIE-BREAK ACE ALL SET FOR US Cabrera’s nerves of steel face huge test

WHEN her back is against the wall, Lizette Cabrera brings her best to the court.

And while she would ideally be winning with ease, the Townsville product believes her recent tight matches will have her best prepared for the upcoming US Open.

Cabrera continued on her winning ways in Brisbane’s UTR Pro Tennis Series earlier this week, overcoming a sluggish start to see off Olivia Tjandramulia 0-6, 6-4, 10-7.

However, she followed that up with a 2-6, 6-3, 5-10 loss yesterday to Olivia Gadecki.

The 22-year-old has made a habit of rising in tie-breakers.

In her 13 matches as part of the UTR series, nine have gone to a final set decider in which she has won seven.

While it may be far from intended, or ideal, Cabrera said the extra match fitness and ability to emerge from adversity victorious would have her in the best shape possible for a run at Flushing Meadows.

“The preference would definitely be straight sets, but when the pressure is on I think I perform my best,” she said.

“Obviously it’s not ideal to go late, because it can go any way, but I guess I’ve survived seven times.

“I think the UTR tournaments have been really good for match play. The level has been good and I’ve been getting valuable match play we don’t usually get (in the leadup) which is really awesome.”

Cabrera admitted she would need to find greater consistency in her game come the US Open’s start on August 31, even if the field does not feature some of the biggest names in tennis such as Ash Barty and Simona Halep.

The world’s top two women’s players are among the stars who have withdrawn from the Grand Slam due to COVID-19 fears.

However, Cabrera is relishing the opportunity to get back on the big stage.

She leaves for New York this Sunday. She requires coronavirus testing before she flies to the US and again on arrival before beginning her preparations.

The Townsville hopeful might not be facing her greatest competitors but said she valued any chance to take on international rivals.

“I think whatever the circumstance I’m really grateful to be in a main draw,” Cabrera said.

“That’s a really cool achievement for me, but I think regardless of who the field is going to be it’s always a good opportunity when your name is on.

“I get to maximise this opportunity, and it will definitely be a really good chance to gain some points and play some good matches.”