Popyrin continues streak in Rome

Australia’s Alexei Popyrin has posted his fifth straight win on the red clay in Rome after a round three victory against fellow qualifier Roman Safiullin.

Popyrin won two qualifying matches to reach the main draw. The world no. 77 backed up his impressive round two victory over top-10 ranked Felix Auger Aliassime.

Popyrin defeated Safiullin 7-5, 7-5 to book a match against the no. 7 seed Holger Rune from Denmark.

Both are former Roland Garros boys’ singles champions, with Popyrin winning the 2017 title and Rune reigning in 2019.