Brooksby saves match point against Paul to reach final in Houston

Qualifier Jenson Brooksby reached the final of the Houston Open by edging out top seed Tommy Paul 7-6 (5), 3-6, 7-6 (6) at River Oaks Country Club on Saturday.

Brooksby and Paul produced a thrilling battle that extended to two hours, 48 minutes, seeing the former save a match point in the deciding tiebreak.

Statistically, Paul fared better than the qualifier as the top seed recorded six aces, 36 winners and five break-point conversions to his opponent’s none, 20 and four. However, Brooksby benefitted from Paul’s five double faults and 54 unforced errors during the match.

“I’ve been able to recall a lot of those moments this tournament,” Brooksby said while talking about his match-point save. “And I think I’ve gotten stronger as each of those have gone on. I’m just really pleased with how I’ve kept my mental composure here the whole week so far.”

Jenson Brooksby will face the winner of the match between No 4 seed Brandon Nakashima and second seed Frances Tiafoe next.

“I think regardless of what happens tomorrow, it’s a huge positive for me this week. Huge,” Brooksby added. “I’m proud of the work I’ve put in, even last year heading into this year, and how I’ve responded every week, no matter if it was a worse week or a good week. Just excited for tomorrow.”

Jenson Brooksby defeated Japanese Taro Daniel (6-4, 6-4), Chilean Alejandro Tabilo, the No 3 seed (3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (6)) and Aleksandar Kovacevic (2-6, 6-3, 6-4) ahead of his victory.

Earlier in the tournament, Paul, ranked No 13, edged out Chilean wildcard Cristian Garin (2-6, 6-2, 7-6 (5)) and won against qualifier Colton Smith (6-1, 7-6 (1)).

Houston ATP 250, other semi-final result (River Oaks Country Club, clay, USD 680.140):

• Brandon Nakashima vs. Frances Tiafoe

Read also

April 6, 2001: The day France’s Arnaud Clement defeated Swiss Marc Rosset in a marathon Davis Cup clash

Tennis Majors