Like we do for the Grand Slams, us at LastWordOnTennis are here to predict the biggest matches of the year for you. At the ATP Finals, that means every match. The sixth day’s matches feature Dominic Thiem against David Goffin for a spot in the semifinals, and Grigor Dimitrov against alternate Pablo Carreno Busta, who is replacing the injured Rafael Nadal. Picking these matches are myself (Yesh Ginsburg), Ryan Schick, and Brett Margolies.
ATP Finals Day 6 Predictions
Pablo Carreno Busta vs Grigor Dimitrov
Ryan:
Another match with nothing on the line, as Dimitrov has breezed into the semifinal and Carreno Busta lost his one match as an alternate. Although the match is meaningless (aside from 200 rankings points and a ton of prize money), Carreno Busta does not have much of a shot at the upset given his current form. Dimitrov has been playing some great tennis recently and I do not see any reason why he should struggle to win this match.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 2
Brett:
Grigor Dimitrov looks like the best player in the tournament right now. Even though this is pretty much a meaningless match for Dimitrov regarding reaching the semifinals, i’d expect him to win comfortably. Carreno Busta came out a little nervous against Thiem, so maybe he’ll be settled down for his second time playing. Still, Dimitrov is just too good at the moment.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 2
Yesh:
Carreno Busta earned his way into the alternate based on results early in the year. He has struggled in the last half of the season, and maybe could have used this opportunity to turn it around. If he couldn’t do it against Thiem, though, then he certainly won’t be able to against Dimitrov.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 2
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Dominic Thiem vs David Goffin
Ryan:
Thiem plays Goffin with the winner earning a spot in the semifinals. These players have matched up with a lot on the line twice this season, at a Major and a Masters event, with Goffin coming out victorious. Goffin is in great form right now, and will be able to bounce back from a crushing defeat by Dimitrov. Thiem’s form is subpar right now, and although he topped Carreno Busta, is not at a point where he is playing as a top hard court player. Just like their meetings this season, Goffin will win a close match and earn himself a spot in the semifinal.
Prediction: Goffin in 3
Brett:
These two are familiar with each other as this will be their 10th meeting. Goffin leads the H2H 6-3 including wins over Thiem at the Australian Open in back to back years. I don’t give either player much of a chance to reach the final after they win this match, as neither look to be playing their best right now. I think Goffin will get it done in three, but it won’t be the prettiest match.
Prediction: Goffin 3
Yesh:
Thiem has struggled this tournament, but Goffin has looked solid, and against better players. He should be able to come through this one with the win, as he did in both of the pair’s other meetings on the year.
Prediction: Goffin in 3
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
