ATP: No final for Humbert, released in half by Isner in Newport

Newport (USA) (AFP)

France's Ugo Humbert, ranked 48th in the world after his round of 16 at Wimbledon, will not be competing in the first final of his young career after his loss in the semifinals of the Newport grass tournament ahead of American John Isner, 6-7 ( 4/7), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, Saturday, after 2:45 of play.

Humbert, 20, also reached the semi-finals in Marseille in February.

Faced with the American giant (2.08 m) aged 34, the young French did not deserve. It has, however, a little cracked in the decisive game of the second round after having managed a mini break entry (2-0). For, commenting on his fourth double fault at the worst time, he disunited and allowed Isner to return to 2-2, then lead 5-2. At 6-4 for the American, Humbert saved a set ball before yielding in the wake of his throw.

The last run was one way.

Winner of the tournament in 2011, 2012 and 2017, John Isner returns to competition after a three-month absence due to a left-foot injury sustained in his defeat in the Miami tournament final against Switzerland's Roger Federer in March.

The American is looking for the 15th title of his career. He will face Sunday in the final Kazakhstan Alexander Bublik (83), winner of the Spaniard Marcel Granollers (98) 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-4.

© 2019 AFP