By Tony Fairbairn

• Cameron Norrie def Zizou Bergs 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1
• Norrie v Corentin Moutet | H2H: Tied at 1-1

METZ, FRANCE – Cameron Norrie defeated Zizou Berges to reach a second ATP tour semi-final of the year and will play Corentin Moutet next in Metz.

Cameron Norrie def Zizou Bergs 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1

Cameron Norrie is into the semi-finals in Metz after defeating Zizou Bergs in three sets. It was a match that Norrie should’ve won in straight sets having had two match points in the second set tiebreak before prevailing in a comfortable third set. It was a positive start from Norrie who was aggressive and proactive on return as he broke for a 2-0 lead.

There was a big response from Bergs in the next game though with the Belgian showing the type of tennis that has seen him make big steps this season. A break of serve in the next game meant the match was back on serve with some ferocious hitting dictating play from the baseline. Bergs also displayed his incredible athleticism with some ridiculous jumping smashes but that came to no reward in the context of the match as the British number two broke back for a 3-1 lead.

The world number 57 produced some dominant play on the backhand side and came up with some big serving in crucial moments to just about consolidate the break. There was some much better serving and quality from Bergs as the set went on but Norrie couldn’t be stopped with the Brit cruising to the opening set.

In the second set Bergs came out with some more aggressive tactics, pinning Norrie behind the baseline and dictating the rallies. The Belgian had three break point opportunities in the fourth game but Norrie produced some crucial first serves to fend off the wave of pressure against him. Both players produced dominant serving with there being maximum efficiency when it mattered most.

Before the tiebreak, Norrie had the chance to break and serve for the match as he created two break points in the eleventh game. However Bergs denied Norrie the break of serve and the second set went to a tiebreak. In the tiebreak Norrie had control of most the rallies and had two match points at 6-4 up. Nerves got the better of him and Bergs increased his level to claim the last four points and force a deciding set.

Although the disappointment in the tiebreak would have hurt Norrie, the Brit remained positive and calm as he dominated the deciding set. There were too many unforced errors from Bergs with Norrie breaking twice to set up a 5-1 lead. Some crucial aces followed with Norrie serving the match out to love to book a place in the semi-finals.

Cameron Norrie v Corentin Moutet H2H & Match Fundamentals

Norrie will bid to reach his maiden ATP tour semi-final of the season when he takes on the charismatic Corentin Moutet in the last four.

Tale of the Tape – Key Stats (2024)

Norrie will need to take advantage of his efficient serving as Moutet has been very efficient on return this season.

Playing Styles and Prediction

Since his run to the fourth round at Roland Garros, Moutet has been very inconsistent and has not played to his potential. That ironically has been the motto of his career and enters this semi-final fresh having received a walkover due to Andrey Rublev’s withdrawal. Moutet could do with a win here as he pushes for a place in the world’s top 60n before next season.

Norrie will use the backhand to dominate the rallies as he will look for depth to neutralize Moutet’s attacking qualities. Moutet will use variety and power to dominate from the baseline as he will use the energy from the crowd in order to raise his level. The British number two should have enough quality to get through this match but the home crowd will have a lot to say about this match given Moutet’s eccentric personality.

Prediction: Norrie in three sets.

How to Watch/Follow ATP Metz 2024