Hubert Hurkacz’s quarterfinal clash against Tommy Paul at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Rome was a thrilling rollercoaster, marked by fluctuating performance, an ineffective serve, and persistent forehand issues.
Hurkacz struggled early, getting broken three times in the first set—matching the total breaks he faced in his previous three matches at Foro Italico. Paul dominated the opening set with aggressive play, but Hurkacz showed resilience, briefly fighting back before Paul secured the set 7:5.
In the second set, Hurkacz’s inconsistency continued, losing his serve early. Paul threatened to extend his lead, but Hurkacz managed to stay in the game, which proved crucial. Fifteen minutes later, Hurkacz led 3:2 after winning three consecutive games, with Polish commentator Dawid Olejniczka noting this as the best segment of Hurkacz’s game. Hurkacz’s improved serve and Paul’s escalating errors allowed him to win the second set 6:3, dominating long rallies 8-3.
The final set saw Hurkacz’s confidence soar, reminiscent of his comeback against Sebastian Baez in the previous round. He took the first two games but faced a resilient Paul, who managed to rebound. Hurkacz missed six break points in a critical game at 2:0, leading to a nail-biting finish. The last game, lasting over 15 minutes, epitomized the high-quality tennis both players saved for the end.
🇵🇱 Hubert Hurkacz kończy udział w tegorocznej edycji turnieju ATP Masters 1000 w Rzymie na ćwierćfinale. W meczu pełnym zwrotów akcji Polak uległ Tommy'emu Paulowi 5:7, 6:3, 3:6. #czasnatenis
— Z kortu – informacje tenisowe | Tennis news (@z_kortu) May 16, 2024
🇬🇧 Hubert Hurkacz lost against Tommy Paul 5:7, 6:3, 3:6 in the QF of ATP Masters 1000… pic.twitter.com/IBYM5Ylxsm
Hubert Hurkacz – Tommy Paul 1-2 (5-7, 6-3, 3-6)