Lorenzo Musetti has enjoyed a positive start to his ATP Finals hopes after knocking Stan Wawrinka out in Athens.
Musetti must win the Hellenic Championship title to qualify for the ATP Finals, which take place in Turin later this month.
Just one spot remains from the eight available, with Musetti now fighting it out for the last spot with Felix Auger-Aliassime.
Aliassime reached the Paris Masters final to boost his chances of qualifying for Turin, although there is a real possibility that both players make it.
Novak Djokovic may not take on the ATP Finals despite qualifying, a decision he made for last year’s event.
Lorenzo Musetti gives his thoughts on Stan Wawrinka after beating him in Greece
Musetti is not relying on that scenario, battling 4-6, 7-6(7-5), 6-4 past Wawrinka to reach the quarterfinals in Greece
Speaking of the veteran on court after their match, the Italian said: “Well first of all I want to say thanks for sharing the court with a legend… so a big applause to Stan, who showed really an impressive tennis today.
“Honestly, I had to raise my level to win this match, especially in the third set. He was not struggling physically, so hopefully when I will be 40 I will do the same. Big effort from Stan, but of course really, really happy for the win.”
And sharing his immediate goals, he said: “Well, I think everybody knows what’s next in my mind, but of course to play with that in my mind to qualify for the Masters (ATP Finals)… I hope I have your support guys and I will try my best.”
READ MORE: Novak Djokovic produces one staggering statistic during his win over Alejandro Tabilo in Greece
Lorenzo Musetti could face nightmare Athens final in bid for ATP Finals success
Musetti faces another tough test in his bid for success at the Hellenic Championship, with Alexandre Muller up next.
The Frenchman has knocked out both Jan-Lennard Struff and Tomas Martin Etcheverry, and will do Auger-Aliassime a huge favor should he end Musetti’s hopes early.
Home favorite Novak Djokovic, who recently moved to Greece with his family, is also into the quarterfinals of the ATP 250 event.
And given that he’s on the opposite side of the draw to Musetti, the duo could meet in a mouthwatering final should they manage to go all the way.
Djokovic has the crowd support in Athens, and will be desperate to potentially end his season on a high note.
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