Auckland – It will be an all-French affair at the 2020 ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand. Ugo Humbert defeated John Isner in straight sets 7-6 6-4 to reach his maiden ATP final of his career. In the other semifinal, veteran Benoit Paire delivered an entertaining match to the crowd as he edged through 22-year-old Hubert Hurkacz in a tough three-setter 6-4 6-7 6-2.
“I am very happy to play against a compatriot tomorrow… He is a very nice guy and we will see. But I am very happy to be in the final.” said Paire.
“It was the first time for me in the semifinals and now the first time for me in the final.” continued the 30-year-old.
This will be the first time in the ASB Classic history where a Frenchman will be crowned champion. The first edition of the tournament was dated back in 1956, where previous winners have been legends such as Rod Laver, Roy Emerson, and Bjorn Borg.
”I am really happy about this win,” said Humbert. “It was a great match. I returned very well and I played good [on the] key points. I am really, really happy to reach my first final.”
The pair have played once before. Last year in Winston-Salem, Paire beat his 20-year-old countryman in a three-setter, 3-6 7-6 6-3. Paire eventually went on to reach the final there before losing to Hubert Hurkacz.
Results at a glance
Ugo Humbert d. John Isner 7-6 6-4
Benoit Paire d. Hubert Hurkacz 6-4 6-7 6-2
Main Photo from Getty.
