Musetti Defeats Tiafoe to Secure French Open Semi-Final Showdown Against Alcaraz or Paul

Paris: Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti beat America’s Frances Tiafoe in four sets to qualify for the semi-finals of the French Open in Paris Tuesday. The 23-year-old world no 567 from Carrara defeated the 27-year-old Orlando-born world no 17 with scores of 6-2, 4-6, 7-5, 6-2.

According to Ansa News Agency, Musetti expressed the challenges he faced during the match, stating, “Today it was very complicated to play well, it was very windy.” Despite feeling tired, Musetti managed to summon the energy needed to secure the crucial third set. He described the final set as his best performance of the match, delivered from the Philippe Chatrier Court.

Musetti humorously responded to a comment about the elegance of his game, quipping, “We are Italians, we are elegant naturally,” which elicited good-hearted boos from the audience. He attributed his victory to becoming a father last year, explaining that the experience has made him more responsible and professional both on and off the court. He emphasized the importance of family, dedicating the victory to them even if they were not present physically.

Discussing his playing style, Musetti noted, “I have this style that comes a bit from the past. Unfortunately, there are few players with a one-handed backhand.” He acknowledged the difficulty of returning serves over 200 kilometers per hour with a one-handed backhand but credited this skill as part of his success.

Musetti is set to face either Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, the second seed and four-time slam winner, or American number twelve seed Tommy Paul on Friday afternoon. They will compete Tuesday night to determine Musetti’s semi-final opponent. Meanwhile, Musetti’s compatriot, world number one and three-time slam winner Jannik Sinner, holds the top seed position.