Alejandro Davidovich Fokina Eyes Final in Acapulco After Stunning Semi-Final Run

ACAPULCO, Mexico — Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, the 25-year-old Spaniard, is set to face Denis Shapovalov in the semi-finals of the 2025 Abierto Mexicano Telcel presentado por HSBC on Friday. This marks a significant achievement in his debut at the ATP 500 event, as he seeks to secure a spot in his first championship match.

Having previously defeated players from Italy and the USA, as well as the local favorite, Davidovich Fokina expressed his excitement over his progress in the tournament. “It’s been an incredible week for me here in Acapulco, and I’m eager to continue this momentum against Shapovalov,” said Davidovich Fokina.

Ranked No. 48 in the PIF ATP Rankings, the young Spaniard has traveled extensively as part of his tennis career, allowing him to experience cultures across the globe. “Thanks to tennis, I’ve been fortunate enough to set foot on every continent, and I still have many places to explore,” he stated.

In an interview, Davidovich Fokina provided insights into his travel habits while on the ATP Tour. He shared that he always packs his iPad and often includes his gaming console for entertainment during long flights. “I typically handle packing quickly; I can get ready in half an hour since I stick to the same essentials,” he mentioned.

Reflecting on past travel mishaps, he admitted to forgetting tennis shoes for a tournament in Australia and shirts for a different event. “In those cases, friends had to bring me what I left behind, which was quite funny looking back on it,” he laughed.

When asked about his favorite cities on tour, Davidovich Fokina highlighted Monte Carlo for its beauty and accessibility. Conversely, he described the Maldives as his ideal holiday destination, appreciating the chance to disconnect from the world. “The first time I went in 2023, I struggled to relax initially, but those first few days were essential for unwinding,” he said.

Davidovich Fokina also shared his experience with jet lag, revealing that his body has adapted to the frequent travel. “I know how to handle it now, and I listen to my body, focusing on mobility exercises to combat stiffness after long trips,” he explained.

He emphasized creating a comfortable environment while traveling as well, often choosing larger rooms or rented apartments when possible to feel more at home. “Having a living space instead of just a hotel room can make a significant difference during long stretches on the road,” he noted.

As for airport travel, Davidovich Fokina prefers to arrive relaxed but adjusts his timing based on the flight. “In Europe, I cut it close, but for international flights, I give myself plenty of time. Going through security can be cumbersome,” he said.

With the semi-finals looming, Davidovich Fokina remains confident as he gears up for his match against Shapovalov. A win here would not only propel him into his first ATP 500 championship match but also help galvanize his career.