‘It Makes You a Bit Annoyed’: Hubert Hurkacz on Jo Wilfred Tsonga’s Playing Style

Hubert Hurkacz has returned after his shocking early Australian Open exit. The Polish professional is currently playing in the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament for the third straight year. Interestingly, he’s been knocked out by Stefanos Tsitsipas in both of the previous occasions.

Hurkacz defeated the veteran Jo-Wilfred Tsonga in a straight sets (6-4, 7-6) in the first round of the tournament. Hubert has never won this trophy and will be looking to add to his 4 ATP titles, after the disappointing inaugural Slam.

While talking in the post-game interview, Hurkacz said, “The way he [Tsonga] can make shots…. it can make you a bit annoyed but you appreciate playing him!” former World No. 5 Tsonga never shies away from making unexpected returns that take many players by surprise.

“Jo is an amazing player and competitor,” Hurkacz said about the French international. “He brought a really high level and it was a really tough match for me and he is definitely on the way back.”

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga vs Hubert Hurkacz Rotterdam matchup

This was the 1st meeting between the youngster and the veteran on the ATP circuit. First set was evenly matched till the 9th game. Hubert Hurkacz managed a break in the 10th game on the 2nd attempt, winning the set 6-4. Tsonga got the chance to break Hubert’s serve in the 7th game but failed to capitalize on the advantage.

The second set was more evenly poised and went into the tie breaker, with both players holding their serves. Finally, Hurkacz won a thrilling breaker 9-7 after a huge fight with 16 points played. Hubert won 4 mini-breaks in the tiebreaker wrapping up the match.

2022 season has been tough for Hubert. He lost in semis against Roberto Bautista Agut in ATP Cup. Also, he failed to pass unseeded Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the 2nd round at the Happy Slam. He will now face Italian youngster Lorenzo Musetti in 2nd round. Musetti won his 1st round match in 3 sets against Mikael Ymer.

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