Mineola Native Falls at US Open Playoffs

Mineola resident Bradley Smith was one of over 100 competitors at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing this past weekend, hoping to play with the pros at the 2011 US Open, but his dream will have to wait another year.

Facing John Brosens in his opening round of the Eastern Sectional Qualifying Tournament, in which the winner advances to a national event for the chance at a qualifying wild card into this year’s Open, Smith found himself overwhelmed by the windy conditions and his opponent’s game. Dropping the final eleven games of the match in succession, Smith was ushered out of the tournament with a 6-1, 6-0 defeat.

“It wasn’t the result I wanted, but it still was a fun experience,” said Smith. “My opponent was at a much higher level than what I’m used to, but it was nice to be able to play against someone who’s that good.”

Brosens is ranked among the top 20 junior players in the state, and will be competing on the men’s tennis team at Georgetown University next fall.

In the match, his strong serve was able to push Grasmuck back well behind the baseline and dictated the rallies early, firing off multiple winners from his forehand side.

Smith was able to hold his serve in his initial service game, and had a break point opportunity in Brosen’s next service game, but the Bedford native saved it with an ace and quickly held on. Smith was not able to reach game point for the rest of the match.

“It felt like I was able to hold my one once we got into the baseline rallies, but the biggest difference was on the serve,” Smith said. “He’s a tall guy and was able to get a lot of speed when he was serving, but I found myself struggling with my toss all day because of the wind.”

Despite competing in a draw that featured top-level college and junior players, as well as former ATP World Tour pros, Smith says he gave himself a chance at winning the title in next Sunday’s finals.

“You have to dream big,” he said. “Just playing on these courts and having Arthur Ashe Stadium looming over you in the background is inspiring enough.”

Smith says he will now resume competing for the men’s team at SUNY Farmingdale, where he is a second year starter on the team and majors in criminal justice.

The US Open National Playoffs are open to any player over the age of 14, and participants can be of any playing level. The winner of each sectional qualifying tournament will advance into a national tournament at Yale University from August 18-22. The winner of the national tournament will receive a wild card into the qualifying draw of the Men’s singles event at the US Open, held from August 23-September 11.

Tournament play will continue until April 22. To follow results from the rest of the event, visit the tournament drawsheet.