We arrive in the quarterfinals of the ATP Moscow Cup. Two previous champions in Russia’s capital remain in contention for this year’s title, while the home crowd will no doubt hope that Karen Khachanov or Aslan Karatsev can secure the trophy for their country. Who do you think will make it to the final four?
ATP Moscow Quarterfinal Predictions
Adrian Mannarino vs Ricardas Berankis
Head-to-head: Mannarino 5-3 Berankis
Adrian Mannarino has a long history of overperforming at the Kremlin Cup, finishing runner-up in both previous editions. Despite what’s been a fairly awful 2021 campaign, the Frenchman once again shined in Moscow, taking out Andrey Rublev in the second round. That win is bound to finally earn him some confidence back. Ricardas Berankis won their previous meeting at this event five years ago, but he’s enjoyed a much lower standard of opposition so far. The Lithuanian also lost to Borna Gojo in the qualifying draw, getting into the tournament as a lucky loser.
Prediction: Mannarino in 3
Embed from Getty Images
Marin Cilic vs Pedro Martinez
Head-to-head: first meeting
Marin Cilic’s form continues to fluctuate wildly but there were some really good moments in his second-round win over Tommy Paul. The Croat is a two-time champion of this event (2014-15) and while it came quite a long while ago, it’s easy to see why he really enjoys the slower indoor conditions in Moscow. If his baseline game is on, Pedro Martinez shouldn’t be too much of an obstacle. This match will very likely be on Cilic’s racket, especially with the big difference between their serves.
Prediction: Cilic in 2
Embed from Getty Images
John Millman vs Karen Khachanov
Head-to-head: Millman 1-1 Khachanov
It should be a very gruelling physical matchup. The two have rather contrasting styles but both revolve their game around their athleticism. Karen Khachanov won this event three years ago and has the power to hit through the court in slightly slower conditions. John Millman hasn’t been peaking most of the season, but the Australian counter-puncher is a fierce competitor and can really get under his opponent’s skin. In the end, Khachanov’s game should be a bit too heavy.
Prediction: Khachanov in 3
Embed from Getty Images
Aslan Karatsev vs Gilles Simon
Head-to-head: first meeting
Gilles Simon is having a very unexpected resurgence here, winning consecutive matches for the first time this season. The Frenchman had just 4 wins and 20 losses prior to coming to Moscow, so just making the quarterfinals is really something special for him right now. Can he keep it up? He’s going to take on a very dangerous opponent here, someone whose hyper-aggressive gameplan won’t leave him much freedom. Aslan Karatsev had a very solid performance against Egor Gerasimov and should be able to stay consistent enough to push through the French veteran.
Prediction: Karatsev in 3
Main photo:
Embed from Getty Images
