Third seed Lorenzo Musetti and fifth seed Holger Rune kicked off their ATP Toronto Masters 2025 campaigns in dominant fashion on Tuesday, each securing straight-set victories to move into the third round.
After receiving first-round byes, both players wasted no time asserting their authority on court. Musetti, the Italian star and former Grand Slam semi-finalist, brushed past Australian qualifier James Duckworth 7-5, 6-1 in just 82 minutes. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Holger Rune dispatched French big-hitter Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 7-6, 6-3 in a clinical display.
Musetti Back in Form After Recent Slump
Musetti, who had a rocky grass season and an early exit in Washington, looked sharp and in control throughout. He produced 17 winners and capitalized on Duckworth’s 30+ unforced errors, breaking twice in the second set—once on a double fault and then sealing the match with a powerful ace.
The 22-year-old is eyeing a strong run in Toronto after last tasting victory during the Roland Garros quarterfinals in early June. He now sets up a third-round clash with American Alex Michelsen, who edged past Chile’s Tomas Barrios Vera 7-6, 6-3.
Rune Registers First Hardcourt Win Since March
For Rune, the win marked an important return to form. It was his first hardcourt victory since Indian Wells in March, and comes a month after a disappointing first-round Wimbledon exit.
“I tried to stay calm and focus on my serve,” Rune said after his 75-minute win. “There’s sometimes not a lot you can do against his big serve, but I was trying as much as possible.”
“I had a good start to the second set. I’m very happy with the match in general. I’ve not served like this for a while. We’ve been working on small adjustments. My serving felt good and I trusted it all the way.”
Rune, currently ranked World No. 9, kept his game clean with only 10 unforced errors, showcasing a focused and efficient performance.
Top Seed Zverev Set to Debut in Toronto
Later in the day, top seed Alexander Zverev, currently ranked World No. 3, was scheduled to face Australian Adam Walton in his opening match.
Toronto Draw Lacks Star Power
Notably, the 2025 ATP Toronto Masters is missing two of its biggest names—World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz—who both withdrew due to injuries and fatigue, respectively. Their absence has left the draw more open, offering opportunities for rising stars like Musetti and Rune to shine.
Other Results
In other action, 11th seed Karen Khachanov comfortably defeated Argentina’s Juan Pablo Ficovich 6-4, 6-2 to advance.
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