Jo-Wilfred Tsonga defeated defending champion Nick Kyrgios 7-6(5) 2-6 6-4 to reach the final in Marseille.
In their first meeting both men started well by serving well and stamping their authority on the match. In the seventh game Tsonga created three break points but were saved by brilliant Kyrgios serving, however it was the Australian who broke first for a 5-4 lead in the first set. However the Frenchman used his powerful groundstrokes to break back and deny the world number 16 the first set. The first set went to a tiebreak, which the world number 11 edged out to grab the first set 7-6(5). Could the reigning champion respond?
The answer was yes as Kyrgios upped his first serve percentage from 61% to 79% as he held serve comfortably. The Australian broke in the fourth game to lead 3-1 in the second set. Kyrgios looks much more comfortable in the second set as he gained control and broke in the eight game to seal the set 6-2.
The third set saw Tsonga create the break point opportunities and break in the third game to grab the early advantage for a 2-1 lead. The Frenchman won 94% of first service points to continue holding to seal the match in 2 hours and 12 minutes. For the 19 year old Australian it is back to the drawing board despite a valiant performance in France this week. For the 31 year old it is back to back indoor hard court finals, a possible milestone for Tsonga who is starting to show signs of peak form at the right moment.
He will now play Lucas Pouille in the final who beat compatriot Richard Gasquet 7-5 6-3 in the second semifinal. Pouille hit 12 aces en route to an impressive victory in Marseille. The final will take place at 3pm local time, in a fascinating match.
Prediction: Tsonga in three, The inform Frenchman will win back to back titles in my opinion.
