Moutet Survives Carballés Baena Scare in Hangzhou Challenger
Frenchman Battling Through Injury To Reach Quarterfinals
Corentin Moutet proved his battling qualities in reaching the quarterfinals of the Hangzhou Challenger, overcoming a stern test from Roberto Carballés Baena in three sets.
A Tightly Contested First Set
The opening set was a tight affair, with both players trading blows from the baseline. Moutet's powerful forehand was on full display, but Carballés Baena matched him with his consistency and court craft.
The Frenchman eventually earned the crucial break in the ninth game, and served out the set 6-4. However, a worrying sign emerged as Moutet clutched at his left thigh after the final point.
An Injury Scare and a Fightback
Despite the discomfort, Moutet refused to give up. Carballés Baena sensed his opponent's vulnerability and fought back to take the second set 6-3.
The Spaniard broke Moutet early in the third set, but the Frenchman dug deep to break back immediately. Both players held serve until the eighth game, when Moutet's determination proved too strong.
Moutet's Resilience Shines Through
With the crowd firmly behind him, Moutet broke Carballés Baena and closed out the match 6-3 in the third set. The victory was a testament to his resilience and fighting spirit, despite the injury concerns.
Moutet will now face Juncheng Shang in the quarterfinals, as he bids to reach the last four of a Challenger tournament for the first time since 2020.
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