Two qualifiers have reached the semi-finals of the Open Occitaine 250 event in Montpellier to record their best results of their respective careers.
It was definitely a bit nerve-wracking today, there was a lot at stake Martin Dam
Martin Damm and Titouan Droguet benefited from their great serves and reached the last four on Friday.
American Damm defeated Luca Nardi 6-3 7-6(8), while home hope Droguet upset fourth seed Tallon Greekpoor 7-6(5) 7-6(1)
The 22-year-old Damm, who saved a match point in qualifying, defeated former Top 10 stars Huber Hurcacz and Roberto Bautsta Agut in the main draw to reach his first Tour quarter-final.
Against Nardi, he fired 16 aces and saved the only break point he faced.
“It was definitely a little nerve-wracking today, there was a lot at stake,” Damm said. “I knew if we played three sets it might be a bit difficult for me. I’m glad I’m tall and have a pretty good serve, so thanks to my parents!”
He will next meet Adrain Mannarino after the 37-year-old ended French qualifier Arthur Gea’s run with a 5-7 6-4 6-4 victory. For French veteran Mannarino, 37, it will be his 26th semi-final at tour level and his first semi-final in two years.
Droguet threw 21 aces and never got a break point against the Dutchman.
“I’m not used to playing on these kinds of big pitches. So I try not to look up there and just look at the pitch and my team, to stay focused,” the Frenchman admitted after his victory.
The 24-year-old Frenchman will be hoping for continued crowd support when he takes on top champion and defending champion Felix Auger Aliassime in the semi-finals on Saturday.
The Canadian followed his opening win against Stan Wawrinka on Friday with a 6-4 6-2 victory over sixth seed Arthur Fils.
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