Canadian dispatches Lorenzo Musetti, signals confidence ahead of Turin
Felix Auger-Aliassime is showing the form and confidence that could make him a serious contender in the ATP Finals race. The Canadian continued his impressive run at the Shanghai Rolex Masters, overpowering fellow Race to Turin hopeful Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-2 in the round of 16.
The No. 12 seed remains unbeaten in straight sets through his first three matches in Shanghai, dropping only one service game while showcasing clinical execution at the Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena. From a 2-2 standstill, Auger-Aliassime seized control, converting a crucial second break point with an inside-out forehand winner and holding firm despite facing three break chances from Musetti.
In the second set, Auger-Aliassime dominated the final four games, producing 24 winners against just 17 unforced errors and going 20-for-25 at the net. He also ended the match with back-to-back aces, demonstrating his ability to deliver under pressure.
“I felt like I was playing fast but seeing the game in slow motion—it’s a strange feeling,” Auger-Aliassime told ATP Media. “To execute at this level on a match court, especially against an opponent like Musetti, is different from practice. I’m very pleased—it means my preparation is paying off.”
A promising start to the post-US Open season
This tournament marks Auger-Aliassime’s first appearance since reaching his second US Open semifinal and celebrating his marriage to Nina Ghaibi. After winning two ATP 250 titles earlier this year, inconsistent results at majors and Masters 1000 events left him No. 18 in the ATP Finals race.
Reflecting on his progress, Auger-Aliassime said, “I feel better than my best year in 2022. I don’t want to project too far, but I feel great about where I am right now.”
A deep run in Shanghai could see him climb the standings, overtaking Musetti for eighth place and narrowing the gap with other top contenders like Arthur Rinderknech. With his career titles largely coming on indoor hard courts, this setting suits his game perfectly as the ATP Finals in Turin draw closer.
No matter the outcome this week, Auger-Aliassime’s form suggests he is poised to reassert himself among the elite eight-man field this November, potentially rewriting the sequel to his memorable 2022 indoor season.