Defending semifinalist Musetti exits Wimbledon in first round

We last saw Lorenzo Musetti completely disheartened, leaving Court Philippe-Chatrier visibly emotional after his retirement in the Roland-Garros semifinals against Carlos Alcaraz.

Despite his strong start to the season, the Italian was not spared from injuries, and the world No. 7 completely broke down physically during the final two sets against the Spaniard.

Hindered by a left leg issue, he couldn’t finish the match and arrived at Wimbledon with very little grass-court preparation this year. Absent from the tour since his Paris defeat, Musetti didn’t play a single warm-up tournament on grass before heading to London—despite having ranking points to defend after reaching the semifinals of this British Grand Slam last year.

Likely still lacking rhythm, the 23-year-old fought as best he could but never found his best form and couldn’t sustain his level against Nikoloz Basilashvili.

The Georgian, back at world No. 126 and coming through qualifying, is a dangerous player on his day—and he took full advantage of the situation to deliver his best tennis.

With 48 winners, including 15 aces, the 2021 Indian Wells Masters finalist pulled off one of the biggest upsets of Wimbledon’s opening round. After nearly two and a half hours, he sealed victory in four sets (6-2, 4-6, 7-5, 6-1) and advanced to the second round, where he’ll face another Italian in Lorenzo Sonego.

Musetti joins the list of seeded players who fell early in the tournament, including Medvedev, Tsitsipas, Rune, Cerundolo, Griekspoor, and Michelsen—all of whom won’t progress past the first round. More surprises could still be in store before the day ends.