ATP Roundup: Alex Michelsen Survives First-Round Thriller in Auckland
Eighth-seeded Alex Michelsen displayed resilience and composure to overcome Indian qualifier Sumit Nagal in a marathon 6-7(8), 6-4, 6-2 victory on Monday, advancing to the second round of the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.
Michelsen’s Gritty Comeback
Michelsen faced an early setback, failing to convert six set points in a tense first-set tiebreaker. However, he rallied in the next two sets, showcasing his defensive skills and converting critical points to seal the win in 2 hours and 40 minutes. Michelsen saved seven of 10 break points and dictated play in the decisive third set to claim the victory.
Other Results in Auckland
- Nuno Borges: The No. 7 seed from Portugal battled through a challenging match to defeat Italy’s Luciano Darderi 5-7, 6-3, 7-5.
- Zizou Bergs: Belgium’s Bergs secured a solid 6-3, 7-5 win over New Zealand wild card Isaac Becroft.
- Roberto Carballes Baena: The Spaniard edged past Germany’s Daniel Altmaier 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in a tightly contested match.
Adelaide International: Shapovalov Shines
Canada’s Denis Shapovalov delivered a commanding performance in Adelaide, defeating No. 9 seed Zhizhen Zhang of China 6-3, 6-4 in just 67 minutes. Shapovalov was nearly flawless on serve, firing nine aces and winning 31 of 32 points on his first serve. He did not face a single break point during the match, breezing into the second round.
Australian Players Advance
Home favorites Thanasi Kokkinakis and Christopher O’Connell also moved on:
- Kokkinakis overcame Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
- O’Connell edged France’s Arthur Rinderknech 7-5, 7-6(5).
Davidovich Fokina Upsets Bautista Agut
In an all-Spanish clash, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina ousted compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut with a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory. Davidovich Fokina capitalized on his aggressive baseline play to take control of the match and advance to the next round.
The tournaments in Auckland and Adelaide continue to provide thrilling tennis action as players prepare for the Australian Open.
