(Tennis news) With a somewhat difficult victory over Jiri Vesely on Sunday, the 2021 semifinalist began his quest for a first Grand Slam trophy. When he led 7-5, 6-3 in the second set on Court Philippe Chatrier, Tsitsipas appeared to be headed for an easy victory.

However, Vesely was able to catch up thanks to a late break in the third set. In the fourth set tiebreak, the left-hander lost four set points, allowing Tsitsipas to win and go on to victory. The season record of the No. 5 player in the world is at 28-8, and he is 19-6 at Roland Garros. 

Following the game, Tsitsipas appreciated Vesely’s challenge and said, “He was a difficult obstacle today. I won’t lie. He gave me a hard time. I’m happy I overcame it in such a fashion. I was able to bounce back from all those difficulties that were being thrown at me constantly. Today’s win is very important for me.”

The 57th-ranked Carballes Baena, who is now 14-12 on the year and 5-6 at Roland Garros, defeated Emilio Nava in straight sets. Last year, he also advanced to the tournament’s second round. His second singles title of his career was attained in Marrakech, where he has earned five of his victories this year.

Head-to-Head

In the quarterfinals of the 2018 Estoril tournament, Tsitsipas defeated Carballes Baena only once, triumphing in a third-set tiebreak after losing the first set.

Predictions

Tsitsipas and Carballes Baena are both classic base runners. However, the Greek has the advantage because of his greater expertise, heritage, and consistency, particularly on clay. On the field, he had a 91-29 record and four championships.

Tsitsipas has a strong serve, strokes that can hit hard from either wing, good movement, and a devastating single-handed backhand that has become synonymous with him. Carballes Baena, in contrast, has more modest physical characteristics but is no pushover on the court, as seen by his 69-68 record and two championships.

In his Roland Garros debut, Tsitsipas defeated Vesely with 57 winners while winning 83% of the points on his first serve. As he pursues a first Grand Slam victory in Paris, he will be confident in his ability to repeat such results.

If he does, Carlos Alcaraz might not get past the third round and Daniil Medvedev might lose before the semifinals, which would give him a chance to overtake them as the new World No. 1.

Predictions: Tsitsipas to win four sets (3-1) 

Also read: Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz secure wins at the French Open