Karsten Braasch

Karsten Braasch (born 14 July 1967) is a German former professional tennis player. His highest ATP singles ranking was World No. 38, which he reached in June 1994. His career-high in doubles was World No. 36, achieved in November 1997.[1] He was well-noted for his service motion and his habit of smoking during changeovers.

Karsten Braasch

Karsten Braasch in 1987
Country (sports)	Germany
Residence	Ratingen, Germany
Born	(1967-07-14) 14 July 1967 Marl, Germany
Height	1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Turned pro	1987
Retired	2005
Plays	Left-handed (one-handed backhand)
Prize money	$1,497,244
Singles
Career record	68–96 (at ATP Tour-level, Grand Slam-level, and in Davis Cup)
Career titles	0
Highest ranking	No. 38 (13 June 1994)
Grand Slam Singles results
Australian Open	3R (1997)
French Open	1R (1992, 1994, 1995)
Wimbledon	2R (1992, 1994)
US Open	3R (1993)
Doubles
Career record	103–128 (at ATP Tour-level, Grand Slam-level, and in Davis Cup)
Career titles	6
Highest ranking	No. 36 (10 November 1997)
Grand Slam Doubles results
Australian Open	3R (2001, 2004)
French Open	QF (1997, 2004)
Wimbledon	2R (1998, 1999, 2002)
US Open	2R (1998)
Mixed doubles
Career record	7–7
Career titles	0
Grand Slam Mixed Doubles results
French Open	3R (1997)
Wimbledon	3R (1997, 2001)

Braasch competed in a "Battle of the Sexes" contest against the Williams sisters (Venus and Serena) at the 1998 Australian Open when he was ranked 203. Braasch was described by one journalist as "a man whose training regime centred around a pack of cigarettes and more than a couple bottles of ice cold lager".[2] He nonetheless defeated both sisters, playing a single set against each, beating Serena 6–1 and Venus 6–2.[3] Braasch was thirty years old at the time, while Venus and Serena were seventeen and sixteen, respectively.