Musetti: Fully aiming for a year-end spot, this has been the best year of my career

Currently, the outlook for Musetti is quite straightforward: if this Italian athlete claims the title at this week’s ATP250 tournament in Greece, he will overtake the eighth-ranked Alcaraz on the champion points list and secure his debut at the ATP year-end finals.

Musetti profile photo

"This is definitely the most remarkable season in my career to date. Looking back at all the achievements and goals I have reached this year, each one holds great significance," Musetti said in an interview with the ATP official website. "Of course, I still have one goal left to accomplish, and the answer will come after this week. That’s exactly why I’m here—to fight hard for a spot at the year-end finals."

Musetti has never hidden his strong desire to qualify for the ATP Finals for the first time. He eagerly hopes to make his debut at this prestigious year-end event but remains aware of the need to balance the pursuit of qualification with avoiding excessive obsession.

"It’s definitely not easy. I try not to get caught up in calculating points, but I know very well that I must win the title to secure a place at the finals," Musetti admitted. "Winning titles is always my goal at any tournament, so my core objective hasn’t changed. Of course, this week will be very tough with many players performing well here. I will focus on playing each match well and approach it calmly, just like any other event."

As the tournament's second seed, Musetti enjoys a first-round bye, and his first opponent has already been decided—three-time Grand Slam champion Wawrinka.

"This is both a mental and physical battle. My result at the Paris Masters was disappointing," Musetti reflected after losing in the first round to Sonego. "After a few days of rest, I have regained some form and look forward to performing better in Athens."

"I felt great training on the center court. For a 250 event, the scale here is impressive. The court conditions are excellent, and I hope to see a full house," he said excitedly. "This is a beautiful city full of historical sites, and if I get the chance, I would love to explore and sightsee here. This is the last tournament of the season that counts toward points; starting next year, the Paris Masters will be the final event for year-end points, so I will give my all to earn points this week."

(Translated by Wang Fei, Photo by Visual China)