Stefanos Tsitsipas Gets a Big Boost in Lyon Ahead of French Open 2021

By defeating Cameron Norrie in straight sets in the final, Stefanos Tsitsipas has earned the seventh title of his career and his third clay-court title at ATP Lyon Open 2021. With his second title of the clay season, the Greek reiterated his position as a contender for French Open 2021.

A consistent Stefanos Tsitsipas at ATP Lyon 2021

The start of the match was chaotic as Tsitsipas was quickly 40-0 down in his service in the first game. However, he saved all of them to retain his service game. Norrie was much more aggressive than Tsitsipas had anticipated. The former liked using his forehand, and given the good footwork, he troubled the World No.5 early on. Both the players were neck and neck as the opening set was at 3-3.

Serving at 3-3, Tsitsipas had already racked up five aces as Norrie wasn’t coming close to the Greek’s serve. Continuing his service form in the tournament, Tsitsipas led 4-3 in the set. Later, Norrie was in a tough place with two double faults.

As Tsitsipas had built up rhythm and momentum, he punished Norrie for every mistake. Tsitsipas broke Norrie to serve for the match, 5-3. Norrie slapped his racquet on the court in frustration as Tsitsipas took the first set 6-3.

A perfect all-round game from Tsitsipas against Norrie

Despite a bitter end to the opening set for Norrie, he was still consistent with his forehand winners. Norrie was aggressive and didn’t give Tsitsipas any easy points. But Tsitsipas’ first serve consistency continued to haunt Norrie. The second set was tensely poised at 2-2.

Serving at 2-2, the Briton was put under the scanner because of Tsitsipas’ deep hitting. However, he saved himself and continued ahead 3-2. But Tsitsipas was putting Norrie in a tense situation with his quick service games. Tsitsipas’ forehand was crushing Norrie’s hope for any comeback. Under pressure, Norrie cracked and gave a double fault and then a break.

Serving with a break up, Tsitsipas completed a quick service game to lead the second set, 5-3. Norrie had a slump and quickly gave three consecutive match points to Tsitsipas. His serve dropped and Tsitsipas completed the job with the second match point, 6-3, 6-3.