Crum Stuns Top Seed Staksrud In Three Games

Alexander Crum delivered what might go down as the upset of the tournament in men’s singles, taking down top seed Federico Staksrud 11-9, 5-11, 11-6 in the Round of 64.

Crum battled through Monday’s qualifying rounds and had to beat Todd Fought Tuesday morning just to set a clash with the top seed.

Even so, the 33-year-old isn’t shocked by the win.

“I know this is probably a shocking result for most people watching, but for people who know my game and know what I’m capable of, I knew that if I returned well and I volleyed well, I would have a good shot.”

One of the keys for Crum was his two-handed backhand, which he used to pass Staksrud at the kitchen line in key moments.

“The returns were so-so, and I knew I had to go big on them,” he explained. “I didn’t pass as much as I would have liked, but I basically categorize myself as a shorter, less consistent, slower version of Chris Haworth, and that’s still sometimes pretty good.”

That’s a particularly advantageous comparison for Crum, since Haworth has beaten Staksrud in their last three meetings.

“Obviously, I’m thrilled with the win. What Federico has done on the singles side is pretty incredible, so I’m kind of at a loss for words. I’m just gonna try and keep it rolling.”

Crum will face No. 27 seed Mota Alhouni on Wednesday in the Round of 32.