A month after the start of the season, Félix Auger-Aliassime won the first title of his career, in Rotterdam. On Sunday, one month from the end of the season, he won his second title, in Florence.
Posted at 12:53 p.m.
Updated at 1:37 p.m.
It was difficult to predict the outcome of the final between the Quebecer and JJ Wolf. The two players had never faced each other professionally, the American had had a good week and despite his victory at the start of the season, Auger-Aliassime still trailed a lackluster record in the final with his nine defeats in 10 games. “It’s not easy to win a final, believe me,” said the champion after the match.
Especially since there was a lot at stake for the Quebecer. Not only did he have the opportunity to triumph for a second time, but with a win he could re-enter the top 10, in addition to consolidating its place in seventh place in the race for the ATP Finals, which will be disputed in Turin next month and which welcome the eight best players of the season. Three elements that were part of the objectives of the 22-year-old athlete at the start of the season.
The least we can say is that Auger-Aliassime delivered the goods and that the curse that afflicted him during the finals is a thing of the past. “Each final is difficult to win. There is no magic potion,” expressed the Quebecer. Anyway, Auger-Aliassime did not need mystical qualities to slip away with the victory, because he easily defeated his rival in two sets of 6-4 in just over 90 minutes.
Too strong for Wolf
The 23-year-old American delivered an honest and altogether convincing performance against Auger-Aliassime in his first ATP final. “He kept the level of play very high. Powerful striker who is armed with a very ample forehand motion, the 75e world player was at the end of his abilities on the center court.
Nevertheless, the difference between the quality of his game and that of the 13e world racket was considerable, especially in the construction of points and their finishing. At several points, Wolf’s drop shots were too deep and his mistimed net runs allowed Auger-Aliassime to exploit his opponent. The Quebecer did not ask for so much.
As had been the case all week, especially in the semi-final against the promising Lorenzo Musetti, FAA’s serve was on point, his shots were precise and his confidence was renewed with each winning shot.
I served incredibly well today.
Felix Auger-Aliassime
He was elegant on the court and this second career title, notwithstanding the fact that it is a 250 caliber tournament, gives him what it takes to conclude this season in which he has really established himself. among the global elite.
More than a win
Auger-Aliassime was obviously all smiles in the middle of the field in front of the Italian crowd when he received the trophy after the game.
That smile on his face said it all. Long of satisfaction and long of pride.
Auger-Aliassime has played several legendary matches this season. Against Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev in Australia. Against Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal on clay. Against Alcaraz in the Davis Cup.
After each of his matches, in victory or in defeat, the great right-hander spoke of experience, learning and the future. As if each confrontation were a lesson to better manage possible moments of euphoria.
Auger-Aliassime’s 2022 season isn’t quite over yet, but already, she’s the most formative of her career. This title somehow comes full circle, although the best could still be to come if he manages to stay the course for the ATP Finals.
JJ Wolf was certainly not the toughest opponent that will have crossed his path, but as the champion said himself: “You never get used to winning titles. »
Something that could change before long if it continues to experience such a revealing progression as in 2022.