Reilly Opelka, currently ranked world No. 293, has completed a remarkable journey to his seventh ATP final, defeating French giant-server Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the Brisbane International semi-final. The American triumphed 6-3, 7-6 in a high-octane clash lasting an hour and 26 minutes, celebrating his 100th career ATP victory in style.
This achievement is particularly significant for Opelka, marking his first ATP final since Houston 2022 and his first outside of North America. The 25-year-old has also become the seventh active player to reach 100 ATP wins, a testament to his resilience and talent after a prolonged injury layoff.
Dominance Behind the Serve
As expected in a match between two towering servers, the contest featured 64 service winners in just 133 points. However, Opelka’s superior baseline play and tactical acumen made the difference. He capitalized on a single break in the first set and edged Perricard in a tense second-set tiebreak.
Opelka landed 28 winners against only 16 unforced errors, defending all four break points he faced with remarkable composure. In contrast, the younger Perricard managed 18 winners but was hampered by 22 unforced errors, ultimately falling short despite his valiant effort.
Key Moments in the Match
First Set: Early Break Sets the Tone
Opelka broke Perricard in the Frenchman’s first service game, attacking with a precise backhand to force an error. He later faced significant pressure at 4-2, saving four break points with powerful serves, including an ace to hold for 5-2. The American closed the set at 5-3 with a love hold, delivering another ace to seal the opener in 37 minutes.
Second Set: A Tiebreak Battle
The second set was a serving masterclass from both players, reaching 3-3 in just 17 minutes. Perricard faced a critical break point in the seventh game but saved it with a clutch service winner. The set remained on serve, leading to a tiebreak.
Opelka grabbed an early mini-break at 3-1 but briefly lost momentum at 3-3 after a forehand misstep. Perricard faltered with a double fault at 5-3, handing Opelka two match points. The American converted on the first with a stunning backhand winner down the line, booking his place in the final.
A Long-Awaited Milestone
For Opelka, this final represents more than just a return to form—it’s a breakthrough moment after years of setbacks. His victory over world No. 7 Novak Djokovic earlier in the tournament served as a statement of intent, and his performance against Perricard reinforced his position as a player to watch in 2025.
Opelka now faces Jiri Lehecka in the Brisbane International final, aiming to capture his first ATP title in nearly three years.
What’s Next for Opelka?
With renewed confidence and a powerful serve, Opelka looks poised to make a significant impact in 2025. A win in Brisbane would not only add to his trophy cabinet but also signal his readiness to climb back into the upper echelons of the ATP rankings.
Can Reilly Opelka cap his Brisbane resurgence with a title? All eyes are on the towering American as he prepares for the ultimate test in Sunday’s final.