At each first service, a big “phew” goes through the audience. They’re almost afraid for poor Karen Khachanov, on the other side of the net. Taken aback by this power, the spectators look at each other as they see the speed radar of the services panicking. This Wednesday, in the second round of the Rolex Paris Masters, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard once again made it rain aces, and pushed his Russian opponent to his limits. The 21st in the world still came through in three sets (6-7, 6-1, 6-4).
The Frenchman was broken in this meeting, and it is rare enough to be highlighted. For 6 matches, no opponent had managed to take his throw. Karen Khachanov, winner at Bercy in 2018, managed to do so three times, in the second and third rounds, taking advantage of a serious slack in the 31st in the world, who is visibly starting to feel the effects of his title in Basel on Sunday.
Khachanov found the key
The first set, however, followed the trajectory of Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard’s first round, against Frances Tiafoe, with an extremely tense tie-break. After committing a double fault on his first set point, the Lyonnais had to release some big second serves to save opposing set points and a huge uncrossed forehand to take the advantage (14-12). Despite only winning two small points on the return leg, the Habs were in the lead.
Half the way was done, but only half. Broken from the start, the 21-year-old Frenchman never managed to put Khachanov in danger on his own throws during the second round. The Russian took the opportunity to increase his lead and restore equality (6-1).
The aces machine, however, has resumed with a vengeance. More incisive, offensive, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard put the forward gear and pressure on the 21st in the world, unable to get break points. Until the famous 9th game. With his back to the wall after two approximate climbs to the net, the Frenchman obtained a game ball, without converting it. With a beautiful backhand pass, the Russian was more realistic, and took advantage of his only opportunity of the set. The conclusion of this match was only a formality, the Lyonnais’ adventure ended in the second round.
