Shanghai 2025: Lorenzo Musetti, Finally Reaching the Round of 16

In the humidity of Shanghai, Lorenzo Musetti has reached a new milestone in his young career. By defeating his compatriot Luciano Darderi (7-5, 7-6) in the third round of the Chinese Masters 1000, the Italian talent has secured his first-ever qualification for the round of 16 in this tournament… and much more.

Against Darderi, Musetti played with fire. The two know each other inside out, sometimes training together, and it showed: tense rallies, inspired winning shots, but also obvious tension during key moments. A true psychological battle, ultimately won by the world number 9.

With 19 Masters 1000 victories this season, Musetti statistically stands among the best. Only Carlos Alcaraz has done better, with 21 victories.

Now, the upcoming match against Auger-Aliassime in the round of 16 appears crucial, both for the race to Turin and for his end-of-season ambitions. A true test against a formidable opponent who is also on an upward trajectory.