Arthur Fils has enjoyed a sensational return to tennis after such a long period out injured.
He is a Masters 1000 semi-finalist once again and will likely be the narrow favourite to reach the final as well after his latest win.
The Frenchman outlasted Tommy Paul in an enthralling three-set thriller, decided by a match tiebreak after the first two sets had also been decided in that same fashion.
And yet, despite the elation that came with Arthur Fils’ phenomenal victory, Jim Courier did express one worry for the rising superstar.
Jim Courier’s worry for Arthur Fils
Speaking live on Tennis Channel’s feed, as a co-commentator for the match, he praised Fils’ infectious energy as he whipped up the fans.
He arguably had the American crowd in the palm of his hand as he toppled one of their best male players, coming from way behind in the tiebreak to claim that coveted spot in the Miami Open semi-finals.
However, whilst this kind of passion can only be celebrated, Courier expressed his fears for the sustainability of it all.
He argued that bringing such emotion to the court could be a draining factor at the highest level, but also suggested: “I’m not sure at this stage of his career he knows how to play any other way.”
This marks the latest impressive step in the return of Fils, who also reached the Qatar Open final just last month, losing to Carlos Alcaraz.
It only reinforces the suggestion that Fils is the man to challenge Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in the coming years.
Arthur Fils reacts after beating Tommy Paul in Miami
It’s a testament to Fils’ commendable attitude that he managed to win an entire crowd over against a home favourite.
And, speaking afterwards, he discussed how he strives to show no mercy in situations like this, even against those he considers his friends.
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The 21-year-old provided his immediate post-match reaction whilst still on-court, and claimed: “Today, I was just fighting, and even if TP is my friend out of the court, you know, when we are stepping on the court, it’s either him or me, and I prefer when it’s me.
“So yeah, I was just trying my best tonight, and I did good.”
Paul, conversely, would cut a bit more of a downbeat figure, claiming: “We were both hitting through the court a lot; both hitting the ball with a lot of speed. I had a lot more looks earlier on in his service games and he had a couple looks there at the very end. But for the most part both of us were taking care of our serves. The breakers decided the match.
“In the third he was able to close out the match and I wasn’t. Obviously, we always want more as players. Unless you leave with the trophy, you’re not ever really satisfied.”
