Terence Atmane’s Dream Week Gets Bigger in Cincinnati
In one of the most thrilling runs of the 2025 tennis season, 23-year-old French qualifier Terence Atmane stunned World No. 7 Holger Rune on Thursday night to reach his first-ever ATP Masters 1000 semi-final. The lefty stormed past Rune 6-2, 6-3 in just one hour and 13 minutes capping a dominant performance full of confidence and flair.
This victory came just one day after Atmane shocked American No. 1 Taylor Fritz in straight sets. Entering the tournament with a 1-4 tour-level record, Atmane has now won six consecutive matches — three in qualifying and three in the main draw — showcasing one of the most remarkable breakthroughs of the year.
“It’s Pretty Insane” – Atmane’s Emotional Rise
After his win, Atmane struggled to find words for the moment.
> “I don’t think any words can describe how I feel right now,” Atmane said. “It’s pretty insane. I can’t believe it. Being here in the semi-finals of a Masters 1000, breaking into the Top 100, and earning this prize money — it’s going to help me so much.”
For a player who earned just over $310,000 this season before the event, the $332,160 payout from reaching the semi-final nearly doubles his yearly earnings. But beyond money, it’s the validation that seems to matter more.
Dominant Tennis from the Baseline
Atmane’s explosive forehand dictated the match. He hit 14 winners from that wing alone and used his athleticism to glide across the court, covering angles and rushing Rune into errors.
Rune, who had been tipped as a title contender, had no answers. Atmane won 28 of 33 points on his first serve and broke Rune seven times from 11 opportunities. According to Infosys ATP Stats, the Frenchman dropped just five points on his first delivery.
- One Win Away from Tennis History
Atmane becomes the first Frenchman to reach the Cincinnati semi-finals since Richard Gasquet in 2019. More impressively, he’s now the eighth lowest-ranked ATP Masters 1000 semi-finalist in the history of the series.
With his live ranking soaring 67 places to No. 69, Atmane is now guaranteed a new career-high next week. From struggling on the Challenger circuit to playing for a Masters 1000 final spot, the turnaround has been rapid — and richly deserved.
Next Up: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner
http://www.canva.comWaiting for Atmane in the semi-final is none other than the reigning Cincinnati champion and World No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Sinner, known for his ice-cold precision and power, will be a huge step up in class.
But Atmane welcomes the challenge.
“I couldn’t sleep last night after the win against Fritz. I’m just trying to enjoy this moment and be myself out there. I have nothing to lose. That’s my biggest strength.”
- Playing freely and fearlessly has taken Atmane to uncharted territory. He’ll need that same mindset — and more — to challenge Sinner in the next round.
Key Stats from Atmane’s Win Over Rune
Score: 6-2, 6-3
Match Time: 1 hour, 13 minutes
Forehand Winners: 14
Break Points Converted: 7 of 11
First Serve Points Won: 85% (28/33)
Ranking Jump: From No. 136 to No. 69 in ATP Live Rankings