Tommy Haas - Getty Images

Tommy's Back


August 2, 2006 - If Tommy Haas finds himself facing a one-set deficit while in action during the Rogers Cup presented by American Express, forgive him for failing to become particularly overwhelmed. After all, Haas has made a career out of proving doubters wrong and shining when the odds are stacked against him.

In 2002, Haas enjoyed a run to the semifinals of the Rogers, defeating Pete Sampras en route. It was that same year in which the German superstar ascended to a career-high No. 2 world ranking on the strength of a final four showing at the Australian Open.

However, injuries took their tool in the following years and led to a freefall for the charismatic 28-year old best known for his trademark backwards hat and lethal backhand. Haas fell to No. 1086 in the world after missing the entire 2003 season with right shoulder troubles.

The classic comeback story has played out in movies and on television time and time again, yet it was Haas who actually lived it when he returned to the ATP Tour just a year after his injury. His return saw him catapult 1,069 spots in the rankings to No. 17 by the end of 2004.

His comeback has included five of his ten career titles and wins over imposing opposition such as Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and David Nalbandian.

One would be tempted to call this a fairytale ending, if not for the fact that for Hass, this is far from the end. He is still hungry for that elusive first Grand Slam title and has demonstrated the potential to reach that much-coveted plateau.

He is eager to write the next chapter and will begin to do so once he descends upon the Rexall Centre for the 2006 Rogers Cup presented by American Express, taking place August 5-13, 2006.

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