Russian ends Lim's romp, cops singles title in Florida

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino Albert Lim Jr.’s dream run ended after he ran into top seed Artem Dubrivnyy of Russia and suffered a painful 6-7 (3), 1-6 defeat yesterday in the 12-and-under division of the Junior Orange Bowl in Coral Gables, Florida.

Lim, who made it through the main draw following an impressive showing in the qualifying round, added ninth pick Noah Makarome of the United States to his long list of victims with a quick, merciless 6-2, 6-1 win.

But Dubrivnyy, who advanced via a 6-1, 6-0 whipping of No. 6 Ergi Kirkin of Turkey, was just too tough for Lim as he parried every challenge put by the latter in the opening set before dominating the second frame on his way to claiming his fifth title of the year.

Dubrivnyy’s first four titles came in the Eddie Hurr International last month in Bradenton, Florida, Yuriy Kravchenko tournament last May in Bucha, Ukraine, Novikov Cup last March in Moscow, Russia and Open Super-12 in Auray, France the same month.

Lim, for his part, failed to nail his first title in the United States Tennis Association but his runner-up effort spiced by six wins over higher-ranked foes earned him ranking points as well as respect in the tour.

The Filipino will have his chance though.

Lim made it this far after slaying No. 2 Alexander del Corral of the US, 6-2, 6-1, Barnaby Smith of Great Britain, 7-5, 6-0, Jonathan Hefetz of Israel, 6-2, 6-1, Francisco Catulo of Portugal, 6-0, 6-0, and No. 5 Thomas Etcheverry of Argentina, 3-6, 6-1, 6-1.