Tommy Paul edges Cristian Garin for a winning start

The top seed Tommy Paul made a winning start at the ATP 250 event in Houston. Tommy faced the former Houston champion Cristian Garin in the second round and prevailed 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 in two hours and 42 minutes.

The Chilean made a solid start, seeking a much-needed notable win. However, he fell in the closing stages of the duel despite a great resistance, ending his campaign in the second round. Garin claimed one point more than Paul. 

However, the American played a bit better behind the first and second serve, although they both provided four breaks of serve.

Tommy survives in Houston! 💪@TommyPaul1 outlasts Garin 2-6 6-2 7-6(5).@mensclaycourt | #USClay pic.twitter.com/OCOYQf2wYj

— ATP Tour (@atptour) April 3, 2025

Tommy landed 34 winners and 47 unforced errors. Cristian produced a 26-27 ratio and played a bit better from the baseline. However, he dropped the crucial points and propelled the home favorite through. They needed almost 15 minutes to complete the opening game of the duel. 

Cristian denied three break points and closed the game after ten deuces to avoid an early setback. The American faced three break points in the second game and netted a volley on the last to drop serve and fall 2-0 behind. 

Garin had to dig deep again in the third game. The Chilean erased three break points and cemented the break for a 3-0 advantage. Paul pulled the break back in game five before losing serve again in the next one after placing a forehand long. 

The lower-ranked player gained a boost and provided another break in game eight after the rival’s volley error. Thus, Cristian moved 6-2 in front after 54 minutes. Tommy raised his level in the second set, serving well and pressuring his opponent. 

Garin hit a double fault in the first game and got broken. Paul clinched a thrilling rally in game five with a volley winner at the net, extend the…