Stefanos Tsitsipas wins battle of former champions against Fognini in Monte-Carlo

In his first match in Monaco since winning the Monte-Carlos Masters last year, Stefanos Tsitsipas put on a very good display defeating Fognini 6-3 6-0.

The Greek player established himself as one of the best clay players on the tour last year and he certainly did not miss a beat against Fognini. Both of these players enjoy playing in the Principality and both are champions of this event but this time around it was Tsitsipas who was much better. The Greek player came out strong taking an early lead setting the tone for the match.

Somewhat of a burst by the mercurial Italian saw him battle back to 3-3 before Tsitsipas took control of the match once again. Fognini was great at times but he was no match to the consistent onslaught by Tsitsipas who cruised to a routine 6-3 1st set finish. It was a good thing for Tsitsipas who did not serve well at all in the first set.

Serving is a consistent issue for many players in the first couple of days due to wind. Fognini completely lost the compass in the 2nd set as his mind wandered off somewhere other than the court. Tsitsipas was locked in and he attacked Fognini on his 2nd serve with great success. He broke him once early for the 2-0 lead and then once more for the 4-0 lead.

True to style, Fognini allowed himself to be broken once more and Tsitsipas finished it off with 6-0. Good start for the defending champion.