The semi-finals of the Open Occeanie in Montpellier showcased a clash between experience and rising talent, with both qualifiers putting up commendable fights against their more seasoned opponents.
Felix Auger-Aliassime, the defending champion and top seed, faced local favorite Titouan Droguet in a match that highlighted the intensity of both players. After dropping the second set, Auger-Aliassime rallied to clinch victory with a score of 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-1, marking his 21st tour-level final and his 13th indoors. The Canadian is in pursuit of his ninth career title, having already secured eight wins indoors.
Post-match, the 25-year-old reflected on his performance, especially emphasizing his strategy in the first set which allowed him time to adapt to Droguet’s game. Auger-Aliassime stated, “It was good that I won the first set. It gave me time to figure out how to break him. I think I served much better in the third set and returned well on second serves.” His ability to save three crucial break points, particularly at a critical juncture in the final set, showcased his mental strength and experience in tight situations.
Droguet, despite the loss, demonstrated his potential with 14 aces and solid serves that initially troubled the world No. 8. However, as the match progressed, Auger-Aliassime was able to adapt effectively, leveraging his greater experience to seize control and finish strong.
In the other semi-final, Adrian Mannarino advanced to the final after overcoming American Martin Damm, recovering from an early setback to take the match 1-6, 6-3, 6-4. This match marked Mannarino’s 16th tour-level final and his first on home turf, making it a particularly significant achievement for the 37-year-old.
Mannarino expressed his relief and determination following the match, saying, “It was a battle. He was putting me under pressure from the first shots. I just had to try my best. I had a small chance in the second set, and I made it, repeating that scenario in the third. It was pretty crazy.”
With Auger-Aliassime and Mannarino slated to clash in the final, the anticipation among fans is palpable. Auger-Aliassime, buoyed by the enthusiastic home crowd support, remarked on the electric atmosphere, preferring such conditions over playing to empty stands. This final promises to be an exciting showdown between a seasoned champion and an ambitious local veteran, each looking to secure a coveted title.
