Passaro edges Gentzsch 7-6 6-4 in US Open qualifying semifinals

Francesco Passaro came through a tight straight-setter against Tom Gentzsch, 7-6 6-4, to win his US Open qualifying semifinal. The opening set went the distance without a decisive slip, and the Italian's serve was the steadier weapon throughout: he landed 64.2% of first serves and won 74.4% of those points, backed by six aces against just two double faults. The difference came behind the second delivery, where Passaro claimed 54.2% of points to Gentzsch's 46.4%, the German also conceding four double faults. It was a composed performance that carried Passaro through the qualifying draw.