Auger-Aliassime outlasts American Kovacevic to capture Montpellier Open in tiebreaker
Felix Auger-Aliassime continues to impress on the ATP tour, adding a second title to his season after a hard-fought victory at the Open Occitanie tournament in Montpellier, France. The Canadian’s solid serve and unwavering patience were key factors in his success, as he defeated Aleksandar Kovacevic in a thrilling final that went the distance.
Auger-Aliassime, seeded second in the tournament, showcased his dominance on serve by registering an impressive 19 aces and winning 78 per cent of his first serves in the final. The match lasted two hours and 39 minutes, with the Canadian ultimately prevailing in a tight third-set tiebreak.
In a post-match interview, Auger-Aliassime emphasized the importance of his serve in staying competitive and the mental strength required to come out on top in a closely contested match. He acknowledged Kovacevic’s improved serving in the latter sets, highlighting the need to remain patient and focused on his own game plan.
The Canadian’s ability to stay composed under pressure and maintain a positive mindset proved crucial in overcoming challenges throughout the match. Despite facing setbacks, including a missed match point in the second set, Auger-Aliassime stayed resilient and capitalized on key opportunities to secure the victory.
With this win, Auger-Aliassime notched his second title of the season and seventh overall in his career. His earlier triumph at the Adelaide International in January set the stage for a strong start to the year, as he now boasts a commendable record of 10-2 in the 2022 season.
As Auger-Aliassime continues to make his mark on the ATP tour, his combination of powerful serving and mental fortitude sets him apart as a formidable competitor. With a promising trajectory ahead, the Canadian star is poised for further success in the upcoming tournaments on the circuit.
