MESA, AZ – Fourth-seeded Connor Garnett made quick work of fifth-seeded Christian Alshon in singles action on Friday with an 11-5, 11-8 victory.

With the win, Garnett advanced to the semi-finals at the Mesa Arizona Cup.

“I’ve had a slow start to the year,” he shared. “I think Christian is one of those players that can get real hot, so I needed to finish it sooner rather than later before he found his game and started putting the work in.”

While Garnett's weapon of choice is a two-handed-backhand shot, he’s also known for wearing a huge smile on his face while competing.

“Having a smile intimidates the opponents a little bit,” he said. “It exudes confidence, and it shows that I can figure things out no matter the score. It just happens naturally when I feel good and comfortable out there.”

Garnett will battle World No. 1 Ben Johns in the semis.