Peter Polansky achieves improbable 'Lucky Loser Slam' at US Open

Published Aug 29, 2018

WATCH—Court Report from Day 2 at the US Open:

Advertising

Peter Polansky completed a unique feat with his first-round appearance at the US Open.

The 30-year-old Canadian fell in the final round of qualifying of all the majors this season, but got in each time because of withdrawals.

"I don’t take it super seriously," he said. "It's been a pretty fun experience because it’s about the most random achievement possible."

While Polansky said he got some critical comments on social media about his defeats, the other players greeted his unusual “Slam” with appropriate humor.

"Some guys were rubbing me for luck," he said. "When I won my second round [of qualifying], a couple of them said to me, 'You are in.'"

Advertising

Peter Polansky achieves improbable 'Lucky Loser Slam' at US Open

Polansky fell to Alexander Zverev in straight sets in the first round of the tournament, and acknowledged that the German's level is higher than he is used to playing.

The No. 119 is now aiming for another goal—getting straight into the Australian Open, so he doesn't have to play qualifying. Entry into a Grand Slam usually requires a ranking of just below the Top 100.

"I think I've set myself up in a good position," said Polansky.

Withdrawals from Grand Slams have been more frequent this season because of new rules offering players half the first-round prize money for not playing if they are injured, accompanied by fines if they do not perform up to regular standards.

There have been three withdrawals in the first round of the men's draw at the US Open.

Advertising

Peter Polansky achieves improbable 'Lucky Loser Slam' at US Open

Wake up every morning with Tennis Channel Live at the US Open starting at 8 a.m. ET. For three hours leading up to the start of play, Tennis Channel’s team will break down upcoming matches, review tournament storylines, breaking news and player developments.

Tennis Channel’s encore, all-night match coverage will begin every evening at 11 p.m. ET, with the exception of earlier starts on Saturday and Sunday of championship weekend.

Watch the best matches from the first three Grand Slams on Tennis Channel PLUS. From Federer’s historic win at the Australian Open to Halep’s breakthrough at Roland Garros. It all starts Monday, August 27th.

Follow the Race to ATP Finals this fall on Tennis Channel PLUS. Live coverage from the biggest stops including Beijing, Tokyo, Shanghai & Paris.

Advertising