Lorenzo Musetti One Win Away from ATP Finals Qualification
Lorenzo Musetti is just one victory away from securing a spot at this year's ATP Finals after reaching the final in Athens on Friday. To qualify, he must win the title by defeating Novak Djokovic in the final match, scheduled for Saturday in the Greek capital.
Novak Djokovic Reaches Athens Final
Novak Djokovic advanced to the final earlier on Friday, overcoming German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann with a 6-3, 6-4 win. Djokovic recovered impressively, winning five of the last six games after trailing 3-1 in the second set.
Compared to their previous encounter in Shanghai, where Djokovic won 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a tougher three-set match, this victory was more straightforward.
“The 24-time Grand Slam champion is now one win away from the 101st tour-level title of his career.”
Djokovic is among an elite group, with over 100 career titles—alongside Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103).
Musetti's Tough Battle to Final
Later Friday, Musetti secured his final spot by defeating Sebastian Korda in a nail-biting match, 6-0, 5-7, 7-5. Despite leading comfortably, Musetti faced a match point against him at 4-5 in the third set, but he managed to rally and close out the win.
“He originally led by a set and a break, 6-0, 4-3, before the American clawed back and even held a match point with Musetti serving at 4-5 in the third set.”
Final Showdown in Athens
- The final between Musetti and Djokovic will determine who takes the Athens title and earns the last ATP Finals spot.
- Musetti has the chance to make his debut at the ATP Finals by winning this match.
- Djokovic aims for his 101st career tour-level victory, cementing his elite status.
Author's summary: Lorenzo Musetti is poised for a breakthrough ATP Finals qualification by facing Novak Djokovic in Athens' final, with a title win granting him a coveted place in Turin.