Victor of Aliona Bolsova Zadoinov in the first round of the Barranquilla tournament, Fiona Ferro was back on the court tonight. This time, the player from the Côte d’Azur faced another French player, Elsa Jacquemot.
A French duel was what awaited Fiona Ferro in the second round of the Barranquilla challenger. Facing Elsa Jacquemot (20 years old, world No. 184), a player who represents the future of French tennis, the task seemed more challenging.
While both athletes struggled a bit to find their rhythm on serve in the opening games, the match was balanced. More offensive on her serve and especially on returns, Fiona Ferro used her experience (26 years old, world No. 252) to her advantage. She managed to break at the right moment to lead 5-3 before wrapping up the set on her serve (6-3).
After a long break, the French players resumed at the same pace. Long and tactical exchanges aimed at breaking the opponent. More aggressive, and not hesitating to come to the net, Elsa Jacquemot gained the upper hand in the second set. Fiona Ferro took all the risks to try to outpace her opponent. Without success… until the end of the set! Because at the moment of concluding, the younger French player falters. An opportunity that the player from the Côte d’Azur does not seize. The second set goes to Elsa Jacquemot (6-4).
The frustration sets in
In the final set, both players became tense. Direct errors followed one after another. In this type of scenario, it’s the mentally stronger player who makes the difference. Proof of her return to a very good level, it’s Fiona Ferro who gains the upper hand in this aspect. The player from the Côte d’Azur makes the difference, greatly aided by the nine double faults of Elsa Jacquemot in this third set. Final score (6-3 / 4-6 / 6-3) in 2h25.
In the next round, Fiona Ferro will face the winner of the match between Maria Fernanda Herazo Gonzalez and Irina Fetecau. Two players with rather modest rankings. A great opportunity to gain confidence.
