Bermuda’s Davis Cup hero Daniel Phillips was knocked out by Ali Yazdani, from Iran, in the third round of qualifying at the M15 Kayseri in Turkey.

Playing his first ITF Futures tournament, Phillips, who was instrumental in Bermuda securing a spot in the Davis Cup World Group II play-offs, went down 7-6, 7-6 to the top-ranked player in the qualifying stage of the tournament. Victory meant the Iranian made it through to the first round of the main draw.

“My match against the top seed was a hard-fought battle,” Phillips told The Royal Gazette.

“I was happy with my attitude, grit and my ability to never give up and stay in there. My serve wasn't really where I wanted it to be, I had too many unforced errors.

“In the rally, I felt a lot stronger. That gives me confidence with this guy ranked top 700 in the world, now I know my game is up there.

“It’s just a matter of time, consistency and putting in the work to become a better player.”

In the first round, Phillips defeated Venedikt Tsirikidze, of Russia, 7-6, 7-6. The Bermudian then produced a dominant display in his second-round triumph, beating Aleksandre Shvangiradze, from Georgia, 7-6, 6-0

“I had a good first two matches,” the 20-year-old said.

“It just felt like my mindset for the whole week was really good for the last couple of days. I’m trying to learn new things from these experiences.

“I’m going to take what I know now into my next tournament, and try to have another good week.

“I also got my first ITF points. This means that I’m now ahead of everyone who doesn't have a ranking on the alternate list, which makes it easier to get into these qualifying matches.

“Next week, I’m playing singles and doubles so I’m just excited for that.”

Meanwhile, more than 30 young tennis players have registered for the Highland Spring tournament, which starts at Pomander Gate Tennis & Pickleball Club on Wednesday.

Matches will be played daily until next Wednesday.