BRAUNSCHWEIG/STARNBERG, July 12, 2024
The 2024 BRAWO Open is approaching its climax in the 30th anniversary edition of the ATP Challenger Tour event in Braunschweig. Friday’s first singles semi-final action featured top seed Roberto Carballes Baena and Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert, the 2023 BRAWO Open doubles champion.
Expectations were high for a balanced, thrilling match, but the reality turned out differently. At a score of 3-1 for Carballes Baena, Herbert slipped during a net attack and injured his right foot. After several minutes of treatment, he continued but appeared to be struggling, ultimately losing 6-4, 6-1.
“I have been improving throughout the tournament week, but I was a bit tired this morning. Now, I am looking forward to the final,” said Carballes Baena, who is bidding for his12th Challenger career title on Saturday.
Van de Zandschulp fights past Cachin
The second singles semi-final featured Dutchman Botic Van De Zandschulp against Argentine Pedro Cachin on the BRAWO Center Court. Van De Zandschulp, who always appeared calm and composed, missed several match points in the second set but ultimately secured a well-deserved 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3 victory in two hours and 45 minutes..
In top form 🤯
Botic van de Zandschulp fights past Cachin 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3 to reach the championship match in Braunschweig#ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/S5KYHTh4dn
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) July 12, 2024
“I expect a tough match tomorrow,” van De Zandschulp said of the upcoming final, in which the two players will meet for the first time.
