We have reached the final match of the ATP Citi Open in Washington, D.C. The entry list may not have been as strong as usual due to the Tokyo Olympics, but we still saw a week of quality tennis, as well as Rafael Nadal’s return to the courts. He did not reach the final, though, falling to Lloyd Harris in a brilliant match. We do have two quality players in the final, both looking to win the biggest match of their young careers. But who will take it? I share my thoughts. Who do you think will win?
ATP Washington Final Prediction
Jannik Sinner vs Mackenzie McDonald
Sinner is younger and definitely has the bigger upside. He has proven himself an absolute beast on clay, and his powerful game can beat literally anybody. I expect–along with many other tennis fans–to see Sinner winning Grand Slams in the not-too-distant future. The Italian entered this event in a bit of poor form, but he has certainly found it this week, reaching the final without dropping a set.
Mackenzie McDonald has taken his time to reach this stage, but he’s finally here. We saw him impress in Cincinnati qualifying almost a decade ago. He went to college, built his game, and took his time to break out. But he’s been playing tremendous tennis all season, and is constantly improving. He has unexpected power, which will be enough to keep Sinner off guard. He also has an impressive defensive and counterpunching game. He’ll need every ounce of that to be able to handle the Italian’s power, but he likes these courts. With the home crowd at his back, I’ll take the American to win the first title of his career.
Prediction: McDonald in 3
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