Bublik was the protagonist in the semi-final lost against Musetti: first with three serves from below he gave the Italian a game and shortly after he retired due to injury. Lorenzo will now challenge Berrettini.
The match between Alexander Bublik and Lorenzo Musetti to Stuttgart ended in the most unexpected way possible. In fact, the Kazakh surprised everyone, especially his opponent, by retiring at the start of the third set when the result was tied in terms of sets. No previous inkling of this possible epilogue for Bublik who shortly before had played a literally crazy game. Good news for Musetti who will play against Berrettini in the semi-final for an Italian derby.
The crazy game lost by Bublik, three serves from below against Musetti
After a very positive first set won 6-4, Bublik suddenly disappeared thanks also to the return of Musetti. With the score at 4-1 for the Italian tennis player, Bublik on his serve had the chance to close the gap to 40-30. At this point, however, here is a series of “inexplicable” plays.
Bublik three times in a row he attempted the serve from underneath: first an error, then an easy assist for the blue who finished with a backhand, and then another “pass” for Lorenzo who got another winner. As if that wasn’t enough then a double fault, with the second one thrown wide. Worse than that it was difficult.
Berrettini-Musetti today at the ATP Stuttgart, TV time and where to watch the match live and streaming
Bublik’s surprise retirement against Musetti
Carrarino did well to stay focused and not get trapped and stay on track, to then take home the second set 3-1. In the third set, Musetti immediately broke with Bublik who, with broad signs of disappointment, signaled to the referee and his opponent that he could no longer continue. All mimicking a foot problem, which was then explained to Musetti, who celebrated the move to the next round with great respect.
Musetti’s disappointment at retiring with Bublik
These are his words in the post-match interview with his thoughts for his friend Bublik: “I hope he can play next week. He was playing very well. However, I am very proud of what I did in the second set. It’s never the preferred way to win, but knowing that Matteo is in the semi-final… I send a big hug to Bublik, it wasn’t my intention to win like this. It’s difficult to find concentration, he can serve from underneath you never know what he will do, he is very talented.”
Musetti will face Berrettini in Stuttgart in the semifinals
And on the next intersection with Berrettini: “It’s nice to see him back in the Tour, it’s difficult to find form after an injury, but I really appreciate it, we often trained together. We shared good moments, I didn’t see him after the match, he beat tough opponents, it will be a good challenge.”
