Lucas Pouille Returns to Wimbledon
After a three-year absence from Wimbledon, Lucas Pouille has made a remarkable comeback by qualifying for the third Grand Slam of the year. Pouille, who was a quarter-finalist in the 2016 edition, showcased his brilliance on Thursday by defeating his compatriot Luca Van Assche in three sets (7-6, 7-5, 6-2). This victory marks a significant milestone in Pouille's career, especially after enduring years of struggle and injuries.
French Players Shine in Wimbledon Qualifiers
Lucas Pouille is not the only French player making headlines. Hugo Gaston, who missed the 2023 edition, also emerged victorious in the qualifiers, defeating Mikhail Kukushkin in four sets (6-2, 1-6, 7-5, 6-1). Quentin Halys, who reached the third round last year, aims to replicate his journey after qualifying by beating another Kazakh, Beibit Zhukayev (6-3, 6-4, 6-4).
In a surprising turn of events, Maxime Janvier, at 27, will play his first Wimbledon after defeating his compatriot, number 1 seed in qualifying, Giovanni Mpetschi Perricard (6-7, 7-5, 7-6, 7-6). Janvier's exuberant celebration, shouting 'Home, home!' is a nod to the nearly 70,000 euros he will earn with this participation.
On the downside, Richard Gasquet narrowly missed his 18th appearance at Wimbledon, losing to the 123rd player in the world, Vit Kopriva, in four sets (3-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4). Hugo Grenier also fell short against South African Lloyd Harris (6-4, 6-2, 3-6, 7-6). Among the women, Elsa Jacquemot's match against Australia's Olivia Gadecki is still pending.
- Maxime Janvier's journey to the main draw of Wimbledon has been nothing short of spectacular. After defeating American Emiliano Nava in the second round (7-6, 6-3), Janvier expressed his excitement by shouting 'For the thunasse! The money! Only that!' His performance on the London pitch has been impressive, and he hopes to advance one or two more rounds in the main draw, which would significantly boost his earnings.
- Janvier's victory over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard not only secured his place in the main draw but also guaranteed him a check for at least 60,000 pounds, equivalent to 71,800 euros. This amount represents a 50% increase from the previous round's earnings, highlighting the financial stakes involved in Wimbledon qualifiers.
