Cilic bests Klizan in Valencia opener

Marin Cilic dropped the first set but then rallied Sunday for a three-set win over Martin Klizan to kick off the Valencia Open in Spain. The seventh-seeded Croatian started slowly, dropping the first set 1-6, but then turned it on, finishing in 6-0, 6-3 fashion to move past Slovakia's Klizan. This year's Valencia field is topped by Spain's David Ferrer and will also feature the retirement of former world No. 1 and Spanish favorite Juan Carlos Ferrero. Ferrer said he considers Ferrero a colleague and friend, calling him "one of the best Spanish players in history." The world's fifth-ranked player said the Valencia Open was coming during a 2012 season he called "my best year," while admitting that playing "at home ... for your people" has put some extra pressure on him.