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Friendship on Hold: Fils Faces 'Brother' Mpetshi Perricard
27 Oct
Summary
- Fils and Mpetshi Perricard, friends since age nine, face each other.
- Fils is contending for the Nitto ATP Finals; Mpetshi Perricard struggles.
- Fils confident Mpetshi Perricard will regain his top form.
Arthur Fils and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, close friends since they were nine years old, are set to compete against each other in the first round of the Swiss Indoors Basel. This marks their first professional encounter. Fils, currently ranked World No. 8, is having a standout season with a 36-14 record and is in contention for the Nitto ATP Finals.
In contrast, Mpetshi Perricard, who reached a career-high World No. 29 last year and won his second ATP Tour title in Basel in 2024, has slipped to World No. 148. He is still seeking his first tour-level win since June. Despite his countryman's difficult season, Fils is supportive.
Fils stated he speaks with Mpetshi Perricard regularly and is confident his friend will soon recapture his top form. They came through the French tennis system together and share many fond memories. Fils acknowledged that while competitive on court, their friendship remains strong off it, highlighting a mutual respect that allows them to compete fiercely and then reconcile.
Their matchup at the ATP 500 event will showcase contrasting styles: Mpetshi Perricard's powerful serve against Fils' all-court game. Mpetshi Perricard, standing at 6'7", has had to qualify for this year's main draw, underscoring his current challenges. Fils, however, is well-positioned for a strong finish to his season.
