Lorenzo Musetti has had a tense week, but the Italian has achieved his goal of securing a spot at the ATP Finals. The 23-year-old seemed on track to make his debut at the season-ending event, but a premature exit at the Paris Masters allowed Felix Auger-Aliassime to overtake him in the Race to Turin.
Musetti knew his fate was in his own hands as he headed to the ATP 250 tournament in Athens. Winning the title would guarantee his place at the ATP Finals, while anything less would see Auger-Aliassime claim the final spot.
Despite falling to Novak Djokovic in the Athens final, Musetti’s qualification was sealed as Djokovic later withdrew from the year-end Finals. The Italian swiftly made his way to Turin for the ATP Finals, where he is set to face Taylor Fritz in his opening match.
Expressing his joy on social media, Musetti shared, “A dream come true.” He also shared a picture of himself and his team en route to Italy.
Although Musetti missed out on capturing his third career title at the Hellenic Championship, he was all smiles when Djokovic confirmed his withdrawal post-match. Djokovic had informed Musetti on-court about his decision not to participate in Turin.
Arriving at the Inalpi Arena in Turin, Musetti supported Djokovic’s choice to delay his withdrawal announcement. He acknowledged that Djokovic had followed the ATP rules but found it a bit odd that Djokovic played just before the tournament despite already qualifying.
With Djokovic out, the ATP had to quickly find a replacement alternate. Casper Ruud stepped in as the second alternate after Alexander Bublik moved up to first alternate. Ruud, who was next in line, cut short his holiday to be on standby in Turin.
Both Bublik and Ruud, as alternates, are set to receive £118k each without playing a match. Their earnings will increase if they are called upon to compete.
