The Erste Bank Open in Vienna has reached an exciting crescendo with the semi-finals set to feature two compelling matches. Top seed Jannik Sinner is poised to challenge Alex de Minaur, while second seed Alexander Zverev will go up against Lorenzo Musetti.
Jannik Sinner, currently ranked as the world No. 2, demonstrated his formidable abilities in the quarter-finals by dispatching Alexander Bublik with a decisive 6-4, 6-4 scoreline in just under 80 minutes. The Italian maestro displayed impressive serving prowess, relinquishing a mere five points on his serve throughout the clash and effectively breaking Bublik once in each set while denying the Kazakh any break opportunities. Following his victory, Sinner remarked, “It is a tough matchup, and I am very happy. I focused on returning as many balls as possible since he served exceptionally well. Early on, I encountered chances but couldn’t capitalize, yet I managed to maintain my mental fortitude against a player who poses significant danger.”
Sinner’s next adversary, Alex de Minaur, the third seed, advanced by overcoming Matteo Berrettini in a gritty encounter, winning 6-1, 7-6(4) for his 53rd win of the season. The Australian raced out of the blocks, establishing a commanding 5-0 lead within the opening 20 minutes, yet Berrettini fought back valiantly in the second set. Despite this resistance, De Minaur prevailed in the tiebreak, solidifying his aspirations to defend his seventh position in the Race to Turin.
In the evening’s other match, fourth seed Lorenzo Musetti secured his semi-final berth with a solid 6-3, 6-4 victory over Corentin Moutet. Musetti, ranked No. 8 in the world, displayed greater versatility than his opponent, who is known for his unorthodox style and had previously upset Daniil Medvedev in the competition. Musetti’s victory is crucial as he seeks to maintain his position in the Race standings for a place in next month’s ATP Finals.
Alexander Zverev, who is securely positioned in fourth place in the Race, earned his spot in the semi-finals after Tallon Griekspoor withdrew, granting him a walkover. The reasons for Griekspoor’s decision remain publicly undisclosed, but the withdrawal granted Zverev a hassle-free progression in the tournament.
The upcoming matches promise to bring intensity and drama as players vie for a place in the finals of this prestigious event.
