Here are the rankings after the 1st round at Dubaï :


Maybe it was not the best choice to bet on this tournament. Almost everybody have picked the same 4 semi-finalists (Djokovic, Federer, Murray, Berdych, seeded 1 to 4), because these players seem invincible.
Maybe the LLTL should give priority to more "oddball" tournaments, apart from the Grand Slams and M1000. Another ATP 500 took place in the same time as Dubaï this week (Acapulco), with more challengers and a more consistent level. "One must think about it", as Topper said.

There is no real leader, but one is a real loser, so Nelson met the last one : Alex.

LLTL, Nelson : Six erros on the 1st round, and 3 wrong quarter-finalists (Rosol, Goffin, Seppi). You played well during the last 2 tournaments (5th at Melbourne and 2nd at Rotterdam), what happened in Dubaï ?

Alex : I think I'm not really prepared for this tournament, it was my first time as far of my lands and it was not a good play for me. I didn't believe in my dreams anymore (Gulbis for example) that tournament taught me there is no place for feelings or emotional in the "Prono World" ! But I don't give up, my second place in Rotterdam was won the last day, so why don't believe in a wonderful ascent !

Q : What do you think about this LLTL tournament ? Everybody (except huss) picked the same 4 semi-finalists. You are the one who took risks on the 1st rounds (Thiem, McGee, Martin). Do you think the LLTL should choose tournaments like Acapulco, with players less famous ?

Alex : The beginner that I am let me play without pressure, I'm the Tom Thumb of that great team of the LLTL and my audacity makes me believe into someone ultimately disappointing... I think exotic tournament could bring this part of doubt, that bead of sweat when you'll clic which is not here when we see Djoko' or Fed' on the board.

NB : mail-interview, self-translated !