2024 Chengdu Challenger Semifinal: Hanfmann Upsets Mpetshi Perricard
Fast-Rising German Stands Tall in Chengdu
Yannick Hanfmann pulled off the upset of the day at the Chengdu Challenger, shocking second-seeded Constant Lestienne in straight sets to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
Hanfmann, currently ranked 120th in the world, played lights-out tennis, breaking Lestienne's serve four times and saving all four break points he faced.
The German got off to a quick start, breaking Lestienne in the opening game of the match and never looking back. He took the first set 6-3 and continued to dominate in the second, breaking Lestienne twice more to seal the victory 6-3, 6-4.
With the win, Hanfmann advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he will face another Frenchman, Quentin Halys.
Mpetshi Perricard Bows Out in Chengdu
In another upset at the Chengdu Challenger, fifth-seeded Constant Lestienne was defeated by qualifier Yannick Hanfmann in straight sets.
Lestienne, ranked 52nd in the world, was the heavy favorite against Hanfmann, who is ranked over 100 places below him.
However, Hanfmann played the match of his life, breaking Lestienne's serve four times and saving all four break points he faced.
Hanfmann won the first set 6-3 and continued to dominate in the second, breaking Lestienne twice more to seal the victory 6-3, 6-4.
With the win, Hanfmann advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament, where he will face another Frenchman, Quentin Halys.
What's Next for Hanfmann and Lestienne?
Hanfmann will face Halys in the semi-finals of the Chengdu Challenger on Saturday.
The winner of that match will face either top-seeded Richard Gasquet or third-seeded Corentin Moutet in the final.
Lestienne will be disappointed with his performance in Chengdu, but he will have a chance to bounce back next week at the Shenzhen Challenger.
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