The opening set developed into a closely contested battle. Neumayer created several early break-point opportunities but was unable to convert them. Both players subsequently held serve, meaning the set had to be decided in a tie-break. Droguet made the better start and moved ahead with an early mini-break, but Neumayer remained composed and reeled off six consecutive points to take the tie-break.
Impressive performance rewarded
Buoyed by winning the opening set, Neumayer began the second with plenty of confidence. His clever use of angles increasingly unsettled Droguet and earned him an early break in the Frenchman’s first service game. Droguet became increasingly frustrated as the set progressed, while Neumayer remained focused and protected his advantage. The 24-year-old also saved another break point before closing out the set 6–3 to complete an assured victory.
After the match, Neumayer explained the key to his success: “I was the better player from the baseline and felt particularly comfortable during the rallies. Winning the first-set tie-break was definitely crucial. There were a few close games towards the end of the second set, but I’m incredibly happy with the victory.”
The result caps an impressive qualifying campaign for Neumayer, who has reached the main draw of an ATP 500 tournament for the first time. The Austrian described the achievement as a special milestone in his career: “It means an incredible amount to me to play in the main draw of a 500-level tournament for the first time. This is also the first year in which I have won a match in Vienna and qualified for the main draw. I’m already really looking forward to the opening round.”
Machac and Fearnley also reach the main draw
Tomas Machac has also qualified for the Erste Bank Open main draw. The Czech did not have to contest his final qualifying match after Hungary’s Fabian Marozsan withdrew due to illness before taking to the court. Britain’s Jacob Fearnley secured his place in the main draw with a 6–1, 6–7(3), 6–4 victory over Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego, as did Frenchman Adrian Mannarino, who ousted Slovak's Alex Molcan 7:5, 6.2.
