This week has marked yet another milestone in the career of Italian rising star Lorenzo Musetti.
Taking to the courts of the Miami Open on Thursday, the 19-year-old battled to a 6-4, 6-4, win over wild card Michael Mmoh in the first round. Making it the first time in his career he has won a main draw match at a Masters 100 event on a hard court. Musetti also reached the third round of the Italian Open last year on the clay.
The triumph coincides with his debut in the world’s top 100 this week following his recent success at the Mexican Open where he came through qualifying before reaching the semi-finals. He is now the youngest player in the top 100 and one of only two to be aged 19. The other is fellow Italian talent Jannik Sinner who won his maiden ATP title at the end of last season.
“It’s really nice. It’s my first time here [in Miami]. Last week was a fantastic run in Acapulco,” atptour.com quoted Musetti as saying following his latest win. “Michael, I knew he was a great opponent. I played a really good match, it was a tough match. [It was] really intense and I really enjoyed [playing] here. I’m really happy.”
Against Mmoh Musetti produced 18 winners with 10 of those coming from the forehand side. However, he believes he is at his most dangerous in matches when he has the opportunity to hit a backhand down the line. Like the one he produced to save a break point whilst serving out the match.
“I think my lethal weapon is the backhand down the line,” he explained. “It was a really tough moment [and] I came out with a fantastic backhand down the line. I think it’s one of my keys [to] improving my game.”
Next up will be a meeting with the unpredictable Benoit Paire who has recently been caught up in controversy on the Tour. The Frenchman has been accused of tanking during matches and has said tennis is currently ‘not his priority’ due to the current restrictions related to COVID-19. He has only won one match so far this season.
“He’s a really nice guy and is a fantastic player,” Musetti said of Paire. “He has had a lot of ups and downs in his career, but I think he plays incredible tennis. It will be really tough, but for sure it will be fun and a great experience.”
The winner of the upcoming match will then play either Marin Cilic or Cristian Garin.
