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September 23, 1989: The day Aaron Krickstein showed why he was called “Marathon Man”

Every day, Tennis Majors takes you back to some of the most famous moments in tennis history. On September 23, 1989, Aaron Krickstein showed everyone why he could never be written off

Published: Wednesday, 23 September 2026 at 2:06 AM
September 23, 1989: The day Aaron Krickstein showed why he was called “Marathon Man”
Key Things to Know
  • Aaron Krickstein defeated Brad Gilbert 1-6, 7-6, 6-2 in the 1989 Los Angeles Open semi-final.
  • Krickstein saved seven match points after trailing 6-1, 5-2 against Gilbert.
  • Krickstein subsequently defeated Michael Chang 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 from a set and a break down in the final.
The Story in 60 Seconds

On September 23, 1989, Aaron Krickstein produced a memorable comeback against Brad Gilbert in the Los Angeles Open semi-finals. Down 6-1, 5-2, Krickstein saved seven match points to overcome his American compatriot 1-6, 7-6, 6-2 at the Los Angeles Tennis Center at UCLA.

Following the victory, world No. 16 Krickstein went on to defeat reigning French Open champion Michael Chang in the final. Krickstein recovered from a 6-2, 4-1 deficit against Chang to win 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 and capture the tournament title.

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