Tiafoe saves match points to stun Rune and reach first Masters 1000 final
ATPMonday, 19 August 2024 at 05:36
Frances
Tiafoe saved match points to overcome Holger Rune 4-6, 6-1, 7-6(3) and secure
his spot in the Cincinnati Open final. The American will play in his 9th career
final (record 3-5 so far), but it will be his first in a Masters 1000. To claim
the title, he will have to challenge World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
Just like
throughout the week, Rune (No. 16) stepped onto the court with great
confidence, especially in his service game. Despite a poor 37% first serve
percentage, he won 90% of those points and 65% on his second serve, making it
very difficult for Tiafoe (No. 27) to trouble his opponent.
Rune was
more aggressive, hitting 15 winners compared to Tiafoe’s 7, and dictated the
pace of the match in the first part. The former Paris Masters champion
capitalized on his second break point to take the lead and secured the first
set 6-4.
However,
Tiafoe quickly put the first set behind him and came out with a lot of
confidence in the second set. He was almost unbeatable on serve, winning 89% of
the points on his serve. The American broke early to take a 3-0 lead in just a
few minutes. He soon secured a second break and closed out the set 6-1 in his
favor.
Frances Tiafoe at 2024 DC Open
Big-Foe had
a couple of break opportunities in the third set, but Rune managed to escape.
Almost immediately after, Rune took advantage of a couple of break points and
pulled ahead, leading 3-0 thanks to strong service games.
Rune was up
5-2 and had the chance to close out the win on his serve, but Big-Foe
capitalized on the pressure on the Dane, broke back, and then saved two match
points to level the score. The match was decided in a tense tiebreak, where
Tiafoe took an early lead and then held onto his serve to secure one of the
biggest wins of his career, 4-6, 6-1, 7-6(3).
Read also
In the
final, he will face World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who just defeated Alexander
Zverev, also in a third-set tiebreak. The Italian leads the head-to-head
against Big-Foe 3-1, with their last encounter taking place at the 2023 Vienna
Open.
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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