The famous red clay of Monte-Carlo is set for an enthralling rematch as India’s Sumit Nagal and Argentine battler Facundo Diaz Acosta renew their intriguing clay court rivalry in the second round of qualifying. Strap in, tennis fans, because this one promises to be a gripping encore!
With Acosta leading their head-to-head 2-0, both victories happening on clay, their previous clashes take on extra significance since the Argentine has gotten the better of Nagal’s game in the past on this very surface.
It was at the 2021 Cordoba Open where Nagal and Acosta first traded blows on clay, where Acosta emerged victorious after a gruelling 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 tussle
Their most recent meeting was another three-set tussle eventually taken by Acosta (6-1, 2-6, 6-4) at the Poznan Challenger in June 2023, which showed just how evenly matched these two warriors can be on terra battue.
Nagal, however, arrives in Monaco riding a wave of momentum. After dismissing WR63 Cobolli in the opening qualifying round, the Indian, ranked #95, is brimming with confidence. Furthermore, he had a memorable run at Marrakech Open, where he scored an impressive win over WR99 Moutet, and also fought tooth and nail versus WR61 Sonego before narrowly succumbing in the decider.
The Indian’s improved serve, and flat, piercing groundstrokes make him a legitimate threat, and clay is where he truly thrives.
Across the net, Diaz Acosta is one of the most underrated clay courters around. The relentless Argentine is a human backboard, capable of absorbing massive spins and doling out forehand winners at will. His grit and prowess on clay cannot be underestimated.
With extended, arduous rallies a near-certainty, their third on-court battle will likely come down to who can better execute their game plans. It’s a tantalizing clash of styles as two familiar foes renew hostilities in a battle for a coveted main draw spot at the Masters 1000 event. Brace for some breathtaking shot-making, heroic defense and the ultimate test of mental and physical fortitude as they leave it all on the Monte-Carlo clay.
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