From zero to hero, Michelsen completes full-circle moment in Jeddah

Alex Michelsen has secured a complete reversal of his group-stage fortunes from a year ago at the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF. The American, who went 0-3 on his debut at the 2023 edition of the 20-and-under event, on Friday finished his Red Group campaign in Jeddah this year with a perfect record after Shang Juncheng retired from the pair’s maiden Lexus ATP Head2Head clash due to illness.

“I feel pretty good. It feels good to be 3-0,” said Michelsen, the No. 41 in the PIF ATP Rankings. “Obviously, I wish Jerry could have played today, but I knew he was a little sick yesterday, so it’s just unfortunate timing for him, he’s a great player. I’m just super happy to be through.”

Wishing Jerry a speedy recovery 🙏

Shang is forced to retire against Michelsen, 1-4, 1-1 ret.#NextGenATPFinals pic.twitter.com/eRqbSWAnmW

— Next Gen ATP Finals (@nextgenfinals) December 20, 2024

The second-seeded Michelsen led Shang 4-1, 1-1 when the Chinese star was forced to stop. Michelsen had dominated the early stages of the match as his opponent struggled physically at King Abdullah Sports City.

The 20-year-old Michelsen’s opponent in Saturday’s semi-finals will be Arthur Fils or Learner Tien. He is seeking to become the second American to lift the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF trophy, after Brandon Nakashima triumphed in 2022 in Milan.