Nicolas Jarry defeats Tommy Paul 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-3 to reach his first career Masters 1000 final in Rome, marking his first final at a level above ATP 250. © Twitter (@josemorgado)
Nicolas Jarry’s remarkable journey at the Italian Open continues as he advances to his first ATP Masters 1000 final, defeating Tommy Paul in a gripping semi-final. The 21st seed from Chile showcased his decisive baseline game, firing 13 aces and 35 winners to triumph 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-3 in a match that lasted two hours and 44 minutes.
Jarry dominated the first set with his serve, taking a 5-3 lead and closing it out with an ace. Despite losing his momentum in the second set, which Paul won in a tiebreak, Jarry regained control in the third set, opening up a 5-2 lead. He held his nerve in the final game, saving two break points and converting his fifth match point to secure the win.
“It’s in those moments that I play my best tennis,” Jarry reflected post-match. “Finishing the match is never easy, but I made it through, and it’s an amazing feeling.”
This victory marks a significant milestone for Jarry, propelling him to a career-high No. 17 in the ATP Live Rankings. He becomes the first Chilean to reach an ATP Masters 1000 final since Fernando Gonzalez in 2007, a testament to his remarkable journey and tenacity on the court.
Zverev Overcomes Early Scare to Reach Final
On the other side of the draw, former champion Alexander Zverev showcased his resilience, recovering from a dismal start to defeat Chilean Alejandro Tabilo. Zverev won the Italian Open title in 2017 and was in deep trouble after losing the first set 6-1. Yet, the German star dug deep, taking the second set in a tightly contested tiebreak and then raising his level to dominate the third set 6-2.
Zverev’s path to the final has been anything but smooth. Earlier in the tournament, he ousted world number one Novak Djokovic in the third round, underlining his capability to triumph under pressure. The semi-final against Tabilo tested his mental fortitude, but Zverev emerged victorious, setting up his first final appearance of the year.
Sunday’s final promises an electrifying showdown between Jarry and Zverev. The match pits Jarry’s fearless, high-risk game against Zverev’s seasoned, strategic play. Zverev leads their head-to-head record 4-2, but Jarry’s current form and newfound confidence could turn the tide.
For Jarry, this final is more than just a chance at a prestigious title; it’s an opportunity to solidify his place among the elite in men’s tennis. “I try to be aggressive throughout the whole match,” Jarry said. “It’s difficult to maintain that level constantly, but I’m in the final, so…”
The final promises to be an exciting competition between Jarry’s aggressive, high-risk game and Zverev’s resilience and experience. Jarry, now ranked a career-high No. 17, is aiming to become the first Chilean to win an ATP Masters 1000 title since Fernando Gonzalez in 2007. However, he faces a tough challenge as Zverev leads their head-to-head record 4-2. The final will occur on Sunday, where both players will be fighting for the prestigious title.
