‘Jamerican’ Fenty targets deep Kingston Open run

American tennis player Andrew Fenty, who is of Jamaican heritage, battled past compatriot Hunter Heck 2‑1 on yesterday’s opening day of the ATP Challenger Kingston Open at the Liguanea Club.

Fenty, 26, recovered from a slow start after dropping the first set 6‑2, before rallying to take the next two sets 6‑3, 6‑4 and advance to the second round of qualifying.

Although he expects a demanding tournament, Fenty believes he enters the event as one of the main contenders.

“I feel like I am the guy to beat. People want to play well against me. He (Heck) had nothing to lose. He was an alternate. He came in at the last minute, so he could swing and play without any pressure.

“However, these are the wins that will help your professional career. If you can win not on a good day and you are still in the tournament and still alive, that’s all you can ask for,” he said after the match.

Fenty’s grandparents were born in St Thomas, and he noted that he and his family visit Jamaica frequently. His mother is currently building a home in Montego Bay, which he says strengthens his connection to the island.

“I think of myself not as a local, but the next best thing (from Jamaica). I could have a Jamaican passport if I want.

“I train with Blaise (Bicknell – Jamaica number one seed) a lot. I train with John (Chin – another top Jamaican player) a lot.

“I play for the United States, but this is a home game for me. I really feel at home. I really do,” he added.

Yesterday’s victory was his first over Heck after several previous meetings, and he credited the experience gained from those encounters.

“Tough one. He’s not easy to play. I have played this guy before. I have actually never beaten him. So the first time beating him is in Jamaica.

“I was the favourite, but it was super hard. You never know how you are going to adjust. It is not easy to play here. It is hot and the ball goes through the air really fast. So it’s not easy to get the timing right, but I am really happy with this one (win).”

Fenty said he intends to approach the tournament one match at a time and welcomed the strong support from the Jamaican crowd.

“I never would have won this game without the Jamaicans’ help, and we will keep going for sure.

“I will take it one match at a time. I think I am playing well and I have a chance. We have two weeks in the same spot. So if it is not this week, it’s next week,” he said.

Fenty faces American Evan Zhu today at 10 a.m. in the second round of qualifying.

Jamaica’s top‑ranked player, Bicknell, makes his first appearance today when he meets Australia’s Max Purcell in the round of 32.

In other results yesterday, Spain’s Ivan Marrero Curbelo defeated Lev Seidman of the US 2‑1 (6‑2, 4‑6, 6‑3). Edward Winter of Australia beat Steven Christie of the US 2‑0 (6‑1, 6‑1). Garret John of the US stopped Guillaume Dalmasso of France 2‑0 (6‑3, 6‑1). Kenta Miyoshi of Japan eased past Peru’s Arklon Huertas Del Pinto Cordova 2‑0 (6‑0, 6‑1), while France’s Timo Legout defeated Aidan Mayo of the US 2‑0 (6‑2, 6‑3).

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com