ATP Basel: Menšík narrowly defeats this year's Australian Open junior champion to reach the second round

On October 20 local time, the ATP 500 Basel tournament began the men's singles opening round. Czech player Menšík lost a match point in the second set tiebreak, allowing Bernett to level the score, but he maintained composure with strong serving in the deciding set to secure a hard-fought 7-6(1)/6-7(7)/6-3 win. This is his maiden win at this ATP 500 indoor hardcourt event.

Menšík profile image

Bernett, the Australian Open junior boys' singles champion this year, entered this tournament with a wildcard. Had he won this match, he would have become the youngest Swiss player to win at Basel since his idol Federer did so in 1999 at age 18.

"It was an incredibly tough night. Two years ago, I was in his position, so I understand the desire to win every point. Today, I saw the same fighting spirit in him," Menšík said after the match. "His style is very aggressive, and his mental toughness is especially impressive." Menšík will face the winner between defending champion Pericard and Fonseca in the second round.

On the first day of Basel, Davidovich Fokina defeated Sonego 7-6(2)/6-4 to notch his 25th hardcourt win of the season. Davidovich Fokina will meet American Brooksby next, who quickly beat French player Millot 6-4/6-3 in 67 minutes. Another Spaniard, Munar, overcame Swiss qualifier Remy Bertola 6-2/6-4 and awaits the winner between last year's finalist Shelton and Mehzak.

(Text and editing by Wang Fei; images courtesy of Visual China)