ATP Acapulco: Wu Yibing Exits in Quarterfinals, Return to World Top 100 Within Reach

On February 27, Beijing time, the ATP 500 Acapulco tournament held its singles quarterfinals. Chinese player Wu Yibing lost to the event's fifth seed, Cobolli, with a score of 6-7(4)/1-6, ending his run in the quarterfinals.

This match marked the first meeting between the two players. Wu Yibing, who came through the qualifying rounds, was in excellent form this tournament. In the main draw first round, he eliminated the third seed and Norwegian star Ruud in two tie-breaks, then defeated Japanese qualifier Shimabukuro in straight sets in the second round, marking the fourth time in his career he has reached an ATP Tour singles quarterfinal. Cobolli, one of the representatives of Italian men's tennis, is known for his powerful forehand and crucial wide serves.

The first set remained evenly contested. When the score reached 6-5, Wu Yibing held two set points, but he narrowly missed his chances on key points. Cobolli forced a tie-break, which Wu ultimately lost 6-7(4).

Photo of Wu Yibing: Visual China Group

Perhaps affected by playing five matches in six days, Wu Yibing faced a physical crisis in the second set. His baseline rallies and serving level noticeably declined. He reached a 40-15 lead several times on his opponent's serve but failed to convert any break points. Cobolli, meanwhile, maintained a high standard of play throughout, saving all 8 break points he faced in the match, and sealed the victory 6-1 to advance to the semifinals.

Prior to this match, Wu Yibing's live ranking had risen to No. 111. Although he regrettably could not progress further here, displaying such strong form early in the new season has delighted all his fans, and a return to the world's top 100 seems imminent. According to the schedule, Wu Yibing is not entered in next week's Indian Wells Masters, allowing him a longer period for rest and adjustment.

In other completed matches, Kecmanovic, who upset Zverev in the previous round, continued his run, defeating French player Atmane 6-3, 6-3. He will face Cobolli in the semifinals.

(Text & Editor: Sunny)