Auger-Aliassime outshines Tsitsipas in Next Gen battle in Indian Wells

On Saturday, Felix Auger-Aliassime upset world No. 10 Stefanos Tsitsipas with a 6-4, 6-2 win in the second round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells.

While both players are considered part of the ATP's Next Gen, they've both shown they they're ready to compete with the world's best right now. Tsitsipas made his presence felt with a win over Roger Federer in the round of 16 at the Australian Open. Auger-Aliassime is more of a recent success story, as the 18-year-old made a surprising run to the Rio final in late February.

Then, of course, there was today's showing.

In facing a Top 10 player, Auger-Aliassime was in a no-lose situation, with an opportunity to show the tennis world what he can do. While this isn't a Grand Slam, Indian Wells isn't far behind in terms of prestige. And on the tournament's biggest stage, the Canadian put forth perhaps the most impressive performance of his career.

The difference in this match was Auger-Aliassime' clutch play. When the points mattered most, he was at his best. The Canadian saved all seven of break points he faced, which was critical on a day where he didn't serve as well as he is capable of. He also converted all three of his break-point opportunities, allowing him to advance in such straightforward fashion.

When the draw came out, people saw this as a match that couldn't be missed. But a large part of that anticipation was because many saw this being test Tsitsipas would need to pass in order to make a run in what is a very reasonable draw.

It ended up being a can't-miss match for another reason: it was the coming out party that many have been waiting for from Auger-Aliassime. If he keeps playing like this, he'll be an extremely tough out for anybody.