I had earmarked Carlos / Casper and Jannik / Grigor QF's to watch today, and for different reasons, enjoyed them both.
Carlos marches onwards, reaching the SF without dropping a set. Perhaps more challenging opponents would be useful in honing his game, as he hasn't been tested properly as yet. But well done to him for getting through. Poor Casper - his lack of conviction writ large, Carlos was able to capitalise on it, and reel him in at will. I don't minimise Carlos' win because it was relatively straight forward, but he did not have to shift gear by much to win. Into the SF, where Jannik awaits. He'll need his game and wits to hand to get to the final.
Grigor has been a favourite over the years, and his efforts in this QF were worth watching. Gorgeous style - I'm a fan of his shbh. However, Jannik was the star of the show in this QF. What a superb display of finesse and power from him. If this match has not drained his energy, and he is in the zone against Carlos, we are in for a treat!
I note that Daniil slew his demons in beating Ugo. I wondered if he would allow UH to win a hat-trick, and the answer is obviously, 'no! Having come through, is he determined to get to the final? He has a 9-7 head-to-head lead over Alexander, who beat him in Cincinnati this year. Here, each of them required the deciding set to get through. Jarry acquitted himself well to get to the QF, and to make a match of it. AZ must be exhausted given his schedule here-will he have the where-with-all to play well in the SF?
Each SF promises a touch of intrigue / drama, but the 'must watch' for me is Carlos/Jannik. Game on.
