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Guga's world Brazilians add unique flavor to Flushing Meadows
NEW YORK (Reuters) -- The Louis Armstrong Stadium looked more like the Maracana on Tuesday night with Brazilian flags flying and fans singing, dancing and chanting for Gustavo Kuerten as the world number one defeated Spaniard Albert Costa 6-4, 6-4, 7-6 to advance to the U.S. Open quarterfinals. "There was a lot of noise," Kuerten said appreciatively. "I think it's Brazilian week or something...a festival this weekend. "A lot of Brazilians probably came to New York because I'm here. They don't get too much of this in their life, a Brazilian tennis player playing in the U.S. Open, on this stage. I'm sure everybody is having a great time." With the wild, curly hair of a 1980s rock star, Kuerten, 24, has become Brazil's biggest sporting hero -- a three-time French Open winner who has eclipsed even the current heroes of his country's national sport, soccer. But he himself remains a fan. Kuerten said he would be sure to watch Brazil's soccer World Cup qualifier against Argentina on Wednesday. "I don't know where, but I will watch," he said. Kuerten was told that in the United States, he is not considered the best player in the world, with Americans Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras or even rising 19-year-old Andy Roddick preferred by their countrymen. Kuerten attributed it to "natural" patriotism. "Back in Brazil, even when I wasn't number one, they would prefer me much more than the others. That's the way the game is," he said. Kuerten played his first and third matches at the number one showpiece court, Arthur Ashe Stadium, but has played his other two at Louis Armstrong. Meanwhile, Roddick, ranked and seeded just 18th but a U.S. television favorite, was playing his third match at Arthur Ashe. That did not bother Kuerten, either. "I don't really mind," he said. "I'm not the guy born to be a superstar. I don't want to be in the spotlight all the time. "Maybe it's because of that, too. I like to be successful as a tennis player, work my game and live my personal life in a quiet manner. "That's maybe why I have success on the court and happiness off it too."
Copyright 2003 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. |
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