The match began with Roberto Carballes Baena taking the first set 6-4, capitalizing on Stefanos Tsitsipas's early nerves by breaking his serve twice. With a commanding 5-2 lead, Carballes Baena skillfully defended against a late push from Tsitsipas, clinching the set with impressive net play and tactical variety.
However, the momentum shifted in the second set as Tsitsipas found his rhythm, securing a 6-3 victory. A key factor in his resurgence was his strong service game; Tsitsipas won all his service games and maintained a high first-serve percentage, keeping Carballes Baena on the defensive. His ability to save break points during crucial moments highlighted his mental toughness and resilience.
In the decisive third set, Tsitsipas showcased his best form, combining precise serves with effective baseline rallies. He broke Carballes Baena's serve twice, sealing the set at 6-3. Tsitsipas's impressive break point conversion rate—breaking Carballes Baena five times out of eleven opportunities—demonstrated his knack for capitalizing on critical moments.
Statistically, Tsitsipas excelled in key areas such as first-serve points and winners, which were crucial in applying pressure on Carballes Baena. In contrast, Carballes Baena struggled to replicate his earlier form, hampered by a dip in first-serve effectiveness and an increase in unforced errors.
Overall, this victory not only reflects Tsitsipas's growing composure under pressure but also his continuous evolution on various court surfaces, setting the stage for his advancement in the tournament. Tennis fans undoubtedly appreciated the rich blend of skill, strategy, and statistics on display.