No.2 seed Diego Schwartzman continues his love affair with Antwerp, reaching his third final at the European Open. In his semifinal on Saturday, the 29-year-old Argentine breezed past the fast-rising American qualifier Jenson Brooksby 6-4 6-0 in just one hour and 25 minutes, keeping hopes of winning his first Antwerp title alive.
Against Brooksby, Schwartzman appeared determined from the word go and just achieved what he was seeking. The Argentine is trying to resurrect what has been quite a dismal year for him so far, and now is just a win away from claiming his second title of the 2021 season.
Jannik Sinner vs Diego Schwartzman
In the title clash, Schwartzman will lock horns against No.1 seed Jannik Sinner. With three titles, and a runner-up at the Miami Masters, the Italian young sensation is enjoying a breakthrough season. The 20-year-old is yet to drop a set at Antwerp. He recorded a comprehensive 6-2 6-2 win over an in-form Lloyd Harris in just one hour and 26 minutes in their semifinal.
Interestingly, having never faced him in the past, Schwartzman will take on his fourth new opponent in as many matches this week as he prepares for the final.
Schwartzman has been going from strength to strength as the tournament has progressed, and he should carry his momentum into the title clash. On Sunday, Sinner will not only be trying to win the title but also to take a step towards qualifying for the ATP Finals.
While Schwartzman may have found a great rhythm in striking from behind the baseline, he continues to struggle with his serves. He must emphasize improving that department as Sinner has all the right ingredients to hurt the Argentine if Schwartzman shows signs of hesitancy in his service games.
Runner-up in 2016 and 2017, Antwerp has been a happy hunting ground for Schwartzman. The Argentine will be hoping to go one step further this time around.
Schwartzman who can bludgeon his groundstrokes, while Sinner emphasizes timing and placement more. This contrast promises to create an intriguing battle in the title clash.
Can Schwartzman’s experience help him prevail over the youngster to claim the fifth title of his career? Or will Sinner outfox the Argentine to move a step closer to the Nitto ATP finals?
A dazzling and intriguing final awaits us as Schwartzman and Sinner battle it out for the title in Antwerp.
Main Photo from Getty.
