Fils beats Kotov in straight sets to advance in Shanghai

Russia’s Pavel Kotov exited the ATP 1000 singles tournament in Shanghai on October 10 after losing 6:3, 6:4 to France’s Arthur Fils in the second round.

Fils led the serving statistics with 8 aces, twice Kotov’s total of 4. Both players made 1 double fault, leaving them level on that measure despite the Frenchman’s advantage in deliveries that his opponent could not return.

The difference on return was decisive. Fils converted 2 of his 7 break points, while Kotov failed to take either of his two opportunities. The Frenchman secured both sets and completed the victory without needing a deciding set.

Fils advanced to the third round, where his next opponent was to come from the match between Alex Michelsen of the United States and Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands.