The 2019 Australian Open semifinals feature two rising stars trying to punch out established legends of the game as Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic vs Lucas Pouille are the matchups. Our panelists predict both matches.
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Rafael Nadal
Yesh Ginsburg: Tsitsipas is in the midst of a breakthrough run, but Nadal is just in great form. The Greek will give Nadal a run for his money, but ultimately will come up just short. Nadal in 5
Steen Kirby: A great moment for Tsitsipas to build upon what has already been a career best tournament. Nadal has been fantastic this tournament but beating him on a faster surface is still easier than on clay, and Tsitsipas already dethroned Roger Federer before backing it up with a quarterfinal win. Nadal has to be favored but I expect a fight, with the veteran Spaniard digging deep to secure victory. Nadal in 4
Eric Han: Tsitsipas did not have the same level of intensity in his game in his match against RBA, compared to the one against RF. I am concerned whether if it is a physical issue from thr match against RF. If Tsitsipas cannot play at the same level like he did against RF, Nadal will win easily. Nadal in 4
Ryan Schick: Nadal has looked like the best player in this tournament so far. Tsitsipas has been absolutely electric and proved he belongs here, but his time has not com just yet. Nadal looks unbeatable right now, and Tsitsipas certainly won’t go down easy but Nadal will prevail. Nadal in 4
Novak Djokovic vs Lucas Pouille
Yesh: This run from Pouille has come out of absolutely nowhere. He is playing great tennis, he is confident, and nothing can really seem to stop him right now. Nothing, that is, except an all-time great in top form. Pouille might seem able to dig through any match right now, but Djokovic actually is unbeatable. Djokovic in 3
Steen: Djokovic will be rested for this matchup and he would be heavily favored against Pouille under most circumstances. Pouille has had an incredible run out of nowhere and hopefully he can build upon it for the rest of the season, but Djokovic is the player to beat right now. The men’s #1 should reach the final and be favored agianst either possible opponent. Djokovic in 3
Eric: This is the first meeting between these two players, and even though Pouille has upset a lot of top players along the way, I think Djokovic will be too tough. Djokovic in 3
Ryan: Pouille’s run to his first major semi while impressive has yet to see him face a top 10 player. Unfortunately he has the toughest test with the top player in the world. Djokovic will get to Pouille’s serve, but Pouille will not be able to break back enough to stop Djokovic from another Aussie Open final. Djokovic in 3
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