Patrombon makes Last 16

Manila, Philippines - Jeson Patrombon held his ground against Thailand’s Kirati Siributwong, hacking out a 6-2, 7-5 victory yesterday to barge into the Last 16 of the ITF Indonesia F2 Futures in Surabaya, Indonesia.

The 18-year-old Patrombon went toe-to-toe with the hard-hitting Siributwong, going full force on his shots to try to force the latter out of his hitting zone while defending well to eventually prevail over the 934th ranked Thai.

“This match was all about good defense and not just about good offense,” said Patrombon’s coach Manny Tecson. “For us to beat this Thai player, Kirati Siributwong, we have to be able to defend well against him. Kirati is the type of player that does not hold back on his shots and he will hit hard all the way.”

With the triumph, Patrombon earned his second ATP point in a fledgling pro career, which will likely push up his standing in the men’s tour (currently at 1,535th).

The tennis ace from Iligan forged a round of 16 duel with Kento Takeuchi of Japan (838th), who won over compatriot Yuichi Ito, 6-7 (8), 5-1 retired.

Patrombon is looking to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in the men’s tour.