Cobolli dominates Auger-Aliassime and the public: "I have to say it works".

Flavio Cobolli continues his ascent.

A finalist in Washington last week, after beating Ben Shelton in the semi-finals (4-6, 7-5, 6-3), the Italian reached a career-high ranking of 33rd this week.

Facing Félix Auger-Aliassime in the first round in Montreal, the 22-year-old handled the event perfectly. On a hostile Central Court, he made no bones about it, tormenting the poor Canadian (6-3, 6-2).

Questioned in the press conference, he explained that he was inspired by the Djokovic method: "It's something I often say to myself. I've always had Nole as my reference player, and I try to emulate him there too.

It's not just his technique that I appreciate, I like his mentality. I also try to take my cue from the little things he says at the conference.

Since he explained how he positively transforms an audience's support for his opponent, I've applied this method, repeated it several times and I have to say it works."