Stepanek shows skill, composure

The Davis Cup, which staged its 100th final this weekend, throws up some unlikely heroes. Radek Stepanek, a quirky character of 33 who should be on the verge of retirement, is the latest one.

Playing above and beyond his best Sunday in Prague, Stepanek won the fifth rubber for the Czech Republic against the holders, Spain, by defeating Nicolas Almagro 6-4, 7-6 (0), 3-6, 6-3 in a match that proved the old adage: "He who dares, wins."

After world No. 5 David Ferrer had drawn Spain level at 2-2 by outclassing world No. 6 Tomas Berdych 6-2. 6-3, 7-5 with a stunning display, Stepanek did more than step up -- he exploded into the most important match of his long and only intermittently distinguished career by attacking a clearly stiff and nervous Almagro at every turn.

In front of 14,500 spectators on a medium-fast indoor court at Prague's 02 Arena, Stepanek went for winners off his backhand, held steady on his suspect forehand and volleyed out of his mind. Refusing to listen to those who say it is

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/stepanek_shows_skill_composure/12243739

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