Tennis news
into your inbox
Thousands have already subscribed
yThe statistics that defined 2022 – Isner and Opelka take the bots higher in Dallas
What happens when you bring two of tennis’ most lethal servebots together? Tiebreak magic…
Icon SMI / Panoramic
What started as a generational all-American semi-final pitting two of the tallest players on the ATP Tour, ended as a statistical anomaly: the longest tiebreak in ATP history!
On his eighth match point, Reilly Opelka’s mini-break ended a run of 26 straight points won by the server, the American toppling John Isner, 7-6(7), 7-6(22) in the final at the Dallas Open.
Prior to that, Opelka had saved 10 set points in this crazy, serve-centric spectacle.
“I lost track”
Wait, how many set points?
“I lost track,” Opelka said with a wry smile after reaching the final.
Busy statisticians kept tabs, however.
Here are some other interesting numbers from the contest:
- Opelka served 39 aces, which is a record for two-set matches since the stat has been kept (1991).
- After this contest, Isner and Opelka had combined for 98 consecutive service holds and played a tiebreaker in their last 12 sets.
- The pair met again later in the season, in Houston, with Opelka winning, 6-3, 7-6(7).
- Opelka holds the 11-3 lifetime edge in their breakers.
- Isner and Opelka have played 17 sets in their lifetime head-to-head. 14 of them have been decided in a tiebreak.
