The heart more than the head

Two players with real strength of character who play with their guts on court, even if they’re not always in control at times..

Did our protagonists have convincing runs last week? Sonego reminded everyone that indoors he’s a real pain to play with his forehand + serve combo, but he clearly lacked a clinical edge against Humbert; still, it looks like he might be trending up. As for Fokina, I was pleasantly surprised by his level against Giron and his motivation too—after losing the first set he fought and didn’t let go. You can’t say the same against Collignon, where he basically threw away the second set, which is a shame. The question is, does he even want to play indoors at the end of this packed season? I suppose he’ll walk on court with a good mindset, but if the match doesn’t swing his way, there’s still a chance we see him give up. Sonego is more experienced indoors and Basel’s quick courts suit him; he can hold his own just with his serve/forehand combo. Fokina isn’t bad indoors per se, but it’s faster than elsewhere, which gives him less time; he likes to go hard with lots of intensity, and I prefer him in slower conditions. With him it’s all or nothing—when he’s locked in he’s a completely different player who can go deep in any tournament. I’m a bit doubtful about his motivation at this time of year, whereas with Sonego I’m not at all. In terms of play, it’ll be quick on both sides, but once again I see a bit more assurance in the simplicity of Sonego’s game, whereas Foki can get lost by trying to play too fast.