Bjorn Borg (SWE) v Vitas Gerulaitis (USA)
Men's Singles Semi-Final - 1977
 Watch
Now Download
There have been many legendary encounters during the illustrious
history of Wimbledon, none more so thatn the men's semi-final
match between Bjorn Borg and Vitas Gerulaitis in 1977.
Seede number 8, Vitas Gerulaitis was up against his long
time friend and practice partner, Bjorn Borg, seeded number
2 and also the defending champion.
In 1976, at the age of 20, Borg had won his first of five
Championships, without losing a single set. In 1977, he had
been taken the full distance as early as the 2nd round by
Mark Edmondson.
Reaching the semi-final, Borg took the advantage by breaking
service in the opening game, forcing himself ahead of Gerulaitis,
who then responded by drawing level. Tied at 2 sets all, Gerulaitis
broke service in the fifth game, to lead the match for the
first time at 3-2. Gerulaitis' advantage lasted no longer
than one game as Borg displayed his champion's calibre when
he broke service and then went on to win the fifth set 8-6.
Borg's defeat of Gerulaitis was considered to be the outstanding
match of the Championship. It was an enthralling contest of
the highest quality, played at a lightening pace and it held
the rapt attention of the Centre Court for three hours and
remained in the memory of many, long after its conclusion.
|
Featured Matches
