Une marche trop haute pour Titouan ?

After the defeats of Shapovalov, Draxl, Galarneau, and Chan, only Diallo is still in (at the time I’m writing to you), and of course the current world No. 4 Félix Auger-Aliassime.

I’ll start by saying I was pleasantly surprised by Titouan’s mental management and level at the end of the match against Van Assche. And physically as well, actually. I think it’s his first win in the main draw of a Masters 1000 too, so hats off to the artist. He’ll now be able to really let go against the local crowd favorite, on center court and in the night session.

On the other hand, if Félix on the other side is dialed in, there’s a gap in level. All the more so because I prefer when Titouan is in control of the rally and can play his best game: the one built around attacking from the baseline.

In terms of form, we last saw Félix after his last-gasp defeat to Djoko in the Wimbledon quarterfinals. Very high level of play, of course. And I think he’s got a good balance between his professional and personal life. He says it’s important for him, and even for everyone, and he’s right. I remember his comeback after his wedding, and he had never seemed as mentally strong.