Tommy Paul
secured the victory against
Frances Tiafoe with a score of 6-2, 6-2, advancing
to the final of the
Delray Beach Open. The world No. 14 mercilessly
outperformed his compatriot, clinching the all-American clash to reach his 5th
ATP final. The 26-year-old displayed immense superiority from the start against
an imprecise "Big-Foe."
Paul
showcased his best form and took an early lead in the first set by breaking
Tiafoe's serve in the opening game. After pulling ahead, Paul displayed
strength in his service game, while his opponent was more erratic than usual.
With a 3-1 advantage, Paul secured his second break, establishing an almost
insurmountable lead over his compatriot.
Paul
claimed the set with an impressive 6-2 score, achieving a 75% first-serve
percentage, winning 87% of them, and a 60% success rate with the second serve.
This was a clear advantage over Tiafoe, who had a 67% first-serve percentage, a
55% success rate, and only a 40% success rate with the second serve.
Paul
capitalized on his opportunities in crucial moments, securing both break points
in his }favor to take the first set. With the advantage, Paul became more
confident from the baseline, while Tiafoe struggled to challenge Paul in
return.
Big-Foe
initially defended his service game flawlessly, but doubts resurfaced, and Paul
claimed two consecutive breaks that proved insurmountable for Tiafoe, who
couldn't decipher his opponent's serve. The score favored Paul 6-2 in the
second set, marking a stellar performance as he approaches his 5th final on the
ATP Tour.
In the
final, Paul awaits the winner of the match between the first seed Taylor Fritz
and Marcos Giron.