Despite saving three match points, second seed Stefanos Tsitsipas was unable to overcome the aggressive style of Ugo Humbert as he crashed out in the first round at the Paris Masters.
Humbert, ranked World No.34, struck 46 winners to record a tight 7-6(4) 6-7(6) 7-6(3) victory over the Greek star. Although Tsitsipas fought off three match points in the second set tiebreak, he was unable to stave off Humbert's relentless attacks and succumbed after three hours and 16 minutes.
“He was just creating a lot of opportunities from his forehand side and doing a lot of damage from there,” said Tsitsipas. “His serve was very consistent. Despite having opportunities where he would serve second serves and I could come in and be more aggressive, it didn't seem as easy as I had it planned in my head.”
Following this loss, the World No.6 will travel to London in preparation for the season-ending Nitto ATP Finals. Having triumphed last year in his debut appearance, the 22-year old will be looking to defend his title. The elite eight-man event will be held at The O2 in London from 15-22 November, 2020.
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