“Tough Couple of Years”: Felix Auger-Aliassime Reacts After Reaching US Open Semi Finals

The semifinals are almost here, and things are heating up! Felix Auger-Aliassime is back where it all started four years ago, showing off the same firepower that first took him this far. He’s knocked out higher seeds like Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev, and now, after an intense battle with a fiery Alex de Minaur, the Frenchman has done it again. The road hasn’t been easy, but he’s counting his blessings every step of the way.

On Wednesday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium, he stood on the edge of disaster. Down nearly two sets, the big-hitting Canadian fought back to claim an epic 85-minute second set and level the match. Then, with his nerves under control, he ground out a gritty 4-6, 7-6(7), 7-5, 7-6(4) win after four hours and 10 minutes. As he said in his on-court interview: “I think it was just a lot of nerves today during the whole match. It wasn’t pretty at all times, but you know that’s what all Grand Slam matches are. Some days you won’t feel your best, but I was willing to dig really deep and do everything I can. To stand here now, so.”

The last time he reached the semifinals was in 2021, though it feels even longer to him. Still, the emotion poured out. “It’s amazing,” Auger-Aliassime admitted. “Four years ago, it feels like more, and honestly, it was a tough couple of years, but it feels even better now to be back in the semifinals. It’s been an amazing tournament so far. Like you said, it’s not over. You still have some tennis to play, and the biggest challenges are yet to come.” And he’s right.

Sep 10, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada reacts after winning a point against Daniil Medvedev of Russia (not pictured) on day twelve of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports

His 2021 US Open run was a breakout moment that put him on the big stage of tennis. At only 21, he battled through tough opponents and advanced all the way to the semifinals, showcasing his powerful game and calm under pressure. His path included a fortunate break when Carlos Alcaraz retired in the quarterfinals due to injury. That 2021 semifinal appearance became a career milestone and set the bar for his future Grand Slam hopes, proving he could hang with the best.

Since then, the road hasn’t always been smooth. Injuries and form dips slowed his momentum, but that breakthrough year remains a high point. His 2021 US Open journey showed the world his raw talent and hinted at bigger things to come. It’s a performance that continues to drive him and fuel his ambition on tennis’s biggest stages.

Next up, his biggest test yet. He will face either World No.1 Jannik Sinner or Lorenzo Musetti for a spot in the final. It won’t be easy, but Auger-Aliassime has already proved he can stand the heat. Just look at his fight against de Minaur for proof.

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