After walk-over laden run, Felix Auger-Aliassime benefits also through ranking rise after Madrid Open
ATP
Felix
Auger-Aliassime will experience a significant rise in the ATP Ranking following
a series of withdrawals that propelled him to the final of the Madrid Open.
Injuries have been a major theme at the Caja Magica this year, and the Canadian
was the big beneficiary.
The world No. 35 hadn't been having a stellar 2024, having dropped out of the top 30 for the first time since 2019. However, the withdrawal of three of his opponents along the way helped him, at 23 years old and far from his best, to reach his first Masters 1000 final.
A golden opportunity in Madrid
The
Canadian only needed to finish three out of the six matches he was supposed to
play to reach the final, becoming the first player to advance in this manner in
a Masters 1000 since 1990. Even more astonishing, of the four matches he was
scheduled to complete in the week, he finished only one.
On
Monday in the third round, young Czech Jakub Mesik retired while trailing 6-1,
1-0 against the Canadian, who two days later defeated Casper Ruud in straight
sets and secured his spot in the quarterfinals against the first seed Jannik
Sinner. The Italian announced he would not compete due to hip discomfort, and
the former world No. 6 unexpectedly advanced to the semifinals.
He
took to the court against Jiri Lehecka, but only managed to play 6 games before
the Czech decided to retire due to lower back pain. "It’s crazy,"
said Auger-Aliassime at the press conference before the final. "I don’t
know if it’s ever happened to a player before."
Auger-Aliassime has a record of 5-9 in finals, with an 0-2 record on clay courts.
"It’s
kind of a weird situation to be in on my part. It’s never happened to me in my
career so far, a withdrawal or a walkover or retirement of this sort, and
back-to-back like this. I couldn’t believe what was happening when I saw his
back blocked on him."
His
appearance in the Madrid Open final guarantees his return to the top 20 of the
ATP Ranking after six months and secures him a seeding at the upcoming French
Open. The former world No. 6 has a golden opportunity against Andrey Rublev
(No. 8) and will seek his first Masters 1000 title. If he clinches the title,
he will rise a few more spots to No. 17.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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