Is Tommy Paul the Next American Tennis Star After His Win Over Hurkacz?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Tommy Paul has made history by reaching the semifinals of the Italian Open again, becoming the first American since Pete Sampras to achieve this feat. His skillful play against Hubert Hurkacz showcases his growth in the sport. Will he continue his journey to the finals?
Key Takeaways
- Tommy Paul is the first American since Pete Sampras to reach consecutive semifinals in Rome.
- He defeated Hubert Hurkacz with a score of 7-6(4), 6-3.
- Paul's ATP ranking is currently No. 12.
- He has a 3-1 head-to-head record against Hurkacz.
- Paul awaits the winner of the match between World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and Casper Ruud.
Rome, May 15 (NationPress) Tommy Paul maintained his remarkable performance at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia on Thursday, advancing to the semifinals once again. He made history by becoming the first American since Pete Sampras in 1993-94 to reach consecutive semifinals in Rome. The 27-year-old achieved this milestone by overcoming the powerful Hubert Hurkacz with a score of 7-6(4), 6-3, solidifying his place in the last four of this prestigious Italian ATP Masters 1000 event.
In a thrilling first set that saw six breaks, Paul managed to edge out Hurkacz before expertly clinching the match in one hour and 58 minutes. “Every time I come here, I feel at home,” Paul shared, noting his record of 9-4 in Rome, as per the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index. “The courts align perfectly with my style of play. I feel at ease here, and I’ve been showcasing some excellent tennis this week,” he added, as reported by the ATP Tour on their website.
Paul previously triumphed over Hurkacz in three sets at this same stage last year and replicated that form to improve his ATP head-to-head record against the Pole to 3-1.
“Both of us were returning exceptionally well; we obviously wanted to serve better,” Paul remarked regarding the opening set. “We maintained pressure during our service games. I thought I regrouped nicely in the breaker and carried that into the second set.”
Ranked No. 12 in the ATP Live Rankings, Paul could make a return to the Top 10 if he reaches the final. He now awaits the outcome of the evening match between World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and Madrid champion Casper Ruud.
Point of View
Tommy Paul's achievement at the Italian Open reflects a significant moment for American tennis, showcasing his talent and commitment to the sport. His success not only honors the legacy of previous champions but also inspires future generations of players.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Tommy Paul defeat to reach the semifinals?
Tommy Paul defeated Hubert Hurkacz with a score of 7-6(4), 6-3.
When did an American last reach consecutive semifinals in Rome?
The last American to achieve this was Pete Sampras in 1993-94.
What is Tommy Paul's ATP ranking?
Tommy Paul is currently ranked No. 12 in the ATP Live Rankings.
Who will Tommy Paul face in the semifinals?
He will face the winner of the match between Jannik Sinner and Casper Ruud.
What did Tommy Paul say about playing in Rome?
Paul expressed that he feels at home in Rome, as the courts suit his game.
