LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) – Former UNLV standout men's tennis player Alexandr Cozbinov lost two heartbreakers Friday at Ken Rosewell Arena in Sydney, Australia, as part of the inaugural 24-team ATP Cup competition.
 
Representing his home nation of Moldova, Cozbinov, currently ranked No. 818 in the world, pushed veteran Steve Darcis (ranked 157) of Team Belgium, for more than three hours in singles play, before falling 6-4, 6-7, 7-5. In doubles, Cozbinov and Team Muldova captain Radu Albut lost in another marathon outing, 6-7, 7-6, 11-9.
 
Cozbinov told ATPTour.com that he enjoyed competing on such a big stage.
 
"I've never played with that many people watching," Cozbinov said. "Of course it made me excited. I played as hard as I can and I tried as hard as I can because of the opportunity. Of course it was helping me to play better. It's an amazing experience. I was very lucky to be on that court and playing against one of the best players, so it's going to help me moving forward for 2020."
 
A three-time All-Mountain West honoree for the Rebels, Cozbinov was named the 2018 Mountain West Men's Tennis Player of the Year and ITA Mountain Region Senior of the Year after a season that saw him earn a spot in the NCAA Singles Tournament. His UNLV record of 74-35 included upsetting the nation's top-ranked player, Martin Redlicki of UCLA, on Feb. 10, 2018.  
 
Longtime UNLV head coach Owen Hambrook said he was proud to see the effort by his former star player, who also previously competed in the Davis Cup for Team Moldova.
 
"It was great to see Alex put up a tremendous fight against an established pro at the ATP Cup in Australia," said Hambrook. "In just over a year from his graduation he is showing that he belongs on the tour. He was a great player for the Rebels and I am so happy to see him making his dreams come true."