Stoltenberg Blasts His Way Past Courier

Australian Jason Stoltenberg scored his biggest victory Wednesday, defeating second-seeded Jim Courier, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, in the second round of the $1.65 million Assn. of Tennis Professionals Championship.

Stoltenberg capped the victory with an ace to Courier’s backhand.

“That was the serve I felt most confident hitting at the time,” said Stoltenberg, who had trouble with his first serve all match.

“I went for all my serves. I wasn’t going to back off it. But that last one, I was just praying.”

Courier appeared sluggish from the second set on, and his serve lacked its usual zip.

“I did the best I could today,” Courier said. “I don’t think there’s anything to hang my head about.”

Stoltenberg is ranked 56th on the ATP tour.

He played aggressively, going to the net at every opportunity, and Courier missed numerous lobs and passing attempts.

“The only chance for me is coming in as much as I can,” Stoltenberg said. “I don’t think I could beat him from the baseline.”

In another match, top-seeded defending champion Pete Sampras beat Bryan Shelton, 7-5, 6-2.