Mattia Bellucci is riding high after another stunning victory at the ABN AMRO Open, where he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 6-2 to reach his first ATP Tour semi-final. The 23-year-old Italian qualifier has been nothing short of sensational, transforming what started as a qualifying run last week before toppling some of tennis's most established names.
The match, which took place on February 7, 2025, showcased Bellucci's relentless spirit and aggressive playing style. He quickly established control, taking advantage of Tsitsipas' struggles to convert break points. Despite creating four break opportunities for himself, the Greek star failed to capitalize, allowing Bellucci to seize his solitary chance to break serve and take the first set.
"Tsitsipas couldn’t use his chances in the first set, and that's what cost him the win," noted commentators who watched the match closely.
With each game, Bellucci’s confidence soared. "At the beginning of the week, I would have never expected this result," he said, reflecting on his unexpected success against elite competition. His performance included dazzling serves, forceful flat backhands, and crafty drop shots, leaving Tsitsipas frustrated and searching for answers.
Bellucci's path to this quarter-final opening had been paved by hard-fought victories. He started with three consecutive wins against local talents, all under the age of 20, before causing headlines by defeating world No. 5, Daniil Medvedev, 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3. Bellucci revealed, "I was really enjoying myself on court. Today I think I played even technically speaking, against a great opponent but I was in a mindset to fight for every point." His deep commitment to improving his game has paid off handsomely this week.
The absence of Tsitsipas' usual dominance was palpable. The world No. 12 found himself on the back foot from the outset. Bellucci struck early to break serve and maintained his edge throughout. While the Italian fended off break points with composure, Tsitsipas struggled with his own errors, making two double-faults at pivotal moments. The match ended with Bellucci serving to love, sealing the victory after just 85 minutes.
What lies ahead is no small feat. Bellucci will face third seed Alex de Minaur, who advanced after dispatching German lucky loser Daniel Altmaier easily, 6-1, 6-4. The matchup is significant, considering De Minaur's place among the best players on the tour after finishing as the runner-up at last year’s tournament.
Commentators have taken note of Bellucci's remarkable ascent on the ATP Tour, underscoring his bold approach as one of the more exciting narratives of the tournament. "Bellucci is having a breakout tournament. Beaten Medvedev is tough on any court," remarked De Minaur, acknowledging his upcoming foe’s newfound confidence.
Despite the accolades, Bellucci remains grounded and focused on his next opponent. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the crowd, relishing every moment on the court. "Definitely, every day is big, and I’m still not at this level. I need to keep the energy up," he emphasized.
The excitement surrounding Bellucci's run at the Rotterdam Open exemplifies both the unpredictability and allure of tennis. If he continues this trend of fearless play, who knows how far he could go? This tournament may just represent the launchpad toward future success on the ATP circuit for the gifted Italian player.
With his fan base steadily growing, all eyes will be on Bellucci as he aims to maintain his momentum against De Minaur and chase what many imagined was unattainable at the start of the week—a place in the finals of the ATP 500 event.