Canadian native Felix Auger-Aliassime has achieved a remarkable milestone in his tennis career by advancing to the finals of the Mutua Madrid Open for the first time. The 20-year-old player’s journey to the finals was solidified following his opponent, Czech Jiri Lehecka’s, retirement from their semifinal match due to injury.
This is not the first instance where Auger-Aliassime’s opponents have been hindered by injuries during the tournament. Both Jakub Mensik and Jannik Sinner also faced similar fates in previous matches. Lehecka’s unfortunate exit from the match occurred when the score was tied at 3-3 in the opening set, adding to the series of misfortunes experienced by the Canadian player’s opponents.
Lehecka, who caused a significant upset by defeating Rafael Nadal in the fourth round, visibly struggled with a lower back issue which prompted him to request a medical timeout before the seventh game. Sadly, he was only able to play three more points before succumbing to the injury, culminating in an emotional outburst that saw him smashing his racquet in frustration.
As a consequence of his progression to the final match against Andrey Rublev, Auger-Aliassime is poised to re-enter the Top 20 in the ATP rankings next week, marking a considerable achievement in his career.
The Canadian emerging talent has undoubtedly established a prominent reputation for himself in the Mutua Madrid Open, and his performance in the tournament thus far has showcased his exceptional talent and potential in the professional tennis world. His journey to the finals has been marred by unfortunate circumstances, but there is no denying that Auger-Aliassime’s skill and prowess on the court have played a significant role in earning his place in the finals.
With his sights set on securing the championship title, Auger-Aliassime is positioned to make history and leaving a lasting impression on the world of tennis. The finals of the Mutua Madrid Open are anticipated to be an exciting and unforgettable event, with fans eagerly awaiting the thrilling match that lies ahead.