Alexander Bublik does not shy away from any jokes. This Friday, in the semi-final of the ATP 250 in Lyon, against the young Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, the Kazakh achieved the feat of winning a service game by performing six spoon serves. A rare occurrence in a sport where the tendency is more towards power, particularly when it comes into play.
While trailing 0-40 in the fifth game of the match, the 19th in the world tried this tactic for the first time. It was a success since the Frenchman was only able to put the ball back weakly, and was finally pierced on the fly. The same scenario repeated itself at 15-40, before Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard completely missed his third consecutive break point.
The show was far from over, however. Tied, Alexander Bublik once again served with a spoon, to which the Frenchman responded with a beautiful winning forehand. After dismissing the break point and giving himself the advantage, the Kazakh attacked once again, conceding a winning crosscourt backhand. His second game point was the right one, since the long line backhand of the 117th in the world ended up in the corridor.
Despite this improbable game, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard still won (6-4, 7-5), and qualified for his first final on the big circuit. At 20 years old, the one who will enter the top 100 from this Monday confirms his excellent level of play since the start of the season. He will play in the final draw of Roland-Garros next week, with a first round against Belgian David Goffin.
