Arthur Fils has revealed the strategic reasoning behind his use of the underarm serve in a recent match. During a crucial moment at 5-5 in the third set, Fils experienced severe cramps that impeded his ability to perform a traditional serve. In a bid to secure victory, he opted for the underarm serve, despite the crowd’s negative reaction.
“I did everything to win this match. I got cramps at 5-5 in the third. I’m cramping trying underarm serves because I can’t serve. The crowd took it badly. I don’t care, I’m winning. And that’s it,” Fils stated, emphasizing his determination to triumph despite physical limitations.
🗣️“I’m cramping […] I can’t serve, crowd take it badly… I don’t care”
Arthur Fils on why he served underarm in the closing stages 😬#HamburgOpen pic.twitter.com/wbhr2vJOXF
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) July 21, 2024
Fils’ bold move underscores his commitment to winning and his ability to adapt under pressure, illustrating the tactical flexibility sometimes necessary in professional tennis.
Arthur Fils in 2024
Now ranked no.28 (career-high), Fils played his last match on the 21st of July when he overcame world no.4 Alexander Zverev 6-3 3-6 7-6(1) in the final in Hamburg to win his 2nd career title.
Presently, during this year the French player has managed to achieve a composed 28-17 record. Fils conquered 2 titles in 2024 in the Bordeaux Challenger and Hamburg.
