WATCH: Stefanos Tsitsipas on the hunt for Carlos Alcaraz’s crown
The Barcelona Open final is only a few hours away, with Stefanos Tsitsipas set to take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. The competitors solidified their spot in the final yesterday after their exciting semi-final matches.
Tsitsipas took on Italian star Lorenzo Musetti in a clash that lasted two hours and 29 minutes before the Greek sealed off his victory. Tsitsipas narrowly won the battle with a score of 4-6, 7-5, 3-6 to send his Italian opponent packing.
The Greek powered through the match with his ferocious forehands and super serves. He managed to claim five aces over Musetti, a key component in the mental battle of the match. He did, however, receive four double faults, but that did not hinder the 24-year-old from pushing past his opponent.
Musetti struggled on the serve, having sent no aces while receiving three double faults, which could have impacted the Italian’s mental game.
The pair were evenly matched in terms of breakpoints, with Tsitsipas claiming six from 11 and Musetti claiming five from 10.
Tsitsipas found the match to be mentally challenging, as his opponent played some “incredible defensive shots”. However, the Greek pushed through the difficulties, ultimately succeeding in securing his spot in the final.
“It was very physical out there,” said Tsitsipas.
“We had to cover lots of metres on the court and he had some incredible defensive shots that I really didn’t expect at all.
“It was such a mental challenge, I had to go out there and fight it all through [with] the determination of a lion, and just [went] out there to do the best I can.
Tsitsipas was very humble after his win, stating that Musetti was a difficult opponent and that he had to push a bit extra to grab the win.
“He’s a very difficult challenge, especially on this court, so it required a little bit more today,” Tsitsipas said after his victory.
The 24-year-old will take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the final later today. Alcaraz cemented his spot in the final by brushing past British star Dan Evans to claim a 6-2, 6-2 win.
READ MORE: WATCH: Carlos Alcaraz sees off Dan Evans to reach another Barcelona Open final
“Getting myself out there for another chance [to win the Barcelona title], my will is strong and so is my heart,” said Tsitsipas.
“I go out there and give it a go and try the best I can. Nothing [negative] at all. Just enjoy this.”
Tsitsipas will certainly look to grab the title from Alcaraz and secure his first title of 2023. However, he will undoubtedly face a difficult challenge from the reigning champion, who seems to get better with each match.
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