Understanding that it’s not just about one result, world no. 35 Flavio Cobolli just turned 27 years old. He made it all the way to the final of the Hamburg Open! Cobolli had quite a match against top-seed Tomas Etcheverry on his path to the final. He was immensely tenacious, surmounting incredible odds to get to where he is today. The match ended 2-6, 7-5, 6-4 to Cobolli’s delight.
In an evenly matched environment, Cobolli had a nightmare beginning. With 18 unforced errors by his own count, it meant he was always playing catch-up against Etcheverry. The Argentine player capitalized on these mistakes, breaking Cobolli on his third set point after a double fault from the Italian. Indeed, at one point Etcheverry even got out to a 3-1 second set lead, causing further alarm for Cobolli. Cobolli wouldn’t be denied, showing the heart of a champion as he fought back in the second frame.
Cobolli’s Remarkable Comeback
Cobolli’s fighting spirit was clear on display as he returned from 3-1 down in the second set. His doggedness was rewarded when he fought back to win important points that helped him claim the second set 7-5 and prevent a shutout. This key blow changed the tide of the fight in his direction. In the last frame, Cobolli remained the maestro and finished without losing the same against Etcheverry to clinch the win.
Cobolli was greeted with an atrocious litany of calamity in the lead-up to the match. Still, his performance displayed the range of his immense talent and mental toughness. The match showcased the competitive nature of both players, particularly as Cobolli had to navigate through pressure moments that could have easily turned the tide against him.
Andrey Rublev Awaits in the Final
Cobolli’s opponent in the final will be Andrey Rublev. Rublev, Russia’s third seed, won the Hamburg Open title in 2020 and was a finalist in 2019. Rublev made a statement in surviving through to the final with a dazzling display. He rolled over Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime, overpowering him in a lopsided 6-1, 6-4 victory. Rublev will be looking to build on his first title of the season, triumphing at the Qatar Open earlier this month. He provides a formidable test for Cobolli.
The stage is set for a thrilling final, with both players hungry to win a prestigious title. Cobolli is through to his second final of the season. This accomplishment is a testament to his development as an up-and-coming player in the game.
A Clash of Styles
This year’s final should shape up to be an interesting contrast of styles. Although Cobolli has been inconsistent and erratic in matches, provisions for versatility and resilience during games, Etcheverry is a nightmare on clay courts. Cobolli presents a tricky task for Struff in this one. He will face off against Rublev, a major experience competitor whose anti-mental monster enjoys huge moments and shines on similar courts.
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