ATP Shanghai Masters, Tsitsipas v Monfils: Story of the match

Chapter 3 - The Third Set

2018 Rolex Shanghai Masters - Tsitsipas moves in for a volley

The plot of the third set started in a similar fashion to the 2nd with both players executing their favourite shots well. If anything, Monfils and Tsitsipas were holding onto serves even better. But, it all changed in and after the 8th game of the set.

The No.10 seed having held serve to love in the previous game broke immediately without much difficulty. The unseeded player though got the break back in a jiffy after setting up a break point with a stinging forehand following a jumping backhand. With the expectations for a deciding tiebreaker increasing Monfils stood at the line, serving to stay in the match.

Tsitsipas got the crucial first point before Monfils equalled. He won the next two points to hold 2 match point opportunities. The Frenchman struck back with a glorious pass but it was too little too late. Stefanos Tsitspas forced an error to win the set and match.

Here is the full highlights package of the match (via ACJ Sports, YouTube):