We have a great final set up for is at the ATP Masters 1000 in Rome, as two of the contenders for the upcoming French Open will battle it out here. Daniil Medvedev has had minor breakthroughs on clay before, but this is clearly his biggest, coming at the perfect time. Holger Rune, meanwhile, is looking like a future star everywhere, and he’s making sure the world knows it at the biggest events. Who do you think will take home the trophy?
ATP Rome Final Prediction
Daniil Medvedev vs Holger Rune
For someone who claims to hate clay, Daniil Medvedev looks very comfortable on the surface right now. He’s adjusted his defensive counterpunching into a more aggressive form, which still frustrates opponents but now also can win points coming back. His biggest weakness on clay was that he was too slow in turning defense into offense. The Russian has solved that problem, with wondrous results.
Holger Rune, meanwhile, is becoming quite a force on tour. He beat Novak Djokovic in the Paris Masters final last year, and he beat the World #1 again this week. The young Dane is playing his best on the biggest occasions, and he’s showing no sign of letting up.
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This pair has met once before, a little over a month ago in Monte Carlo. Rune won that in straight sets, but I wouldn’t expect a repeat. The matchup favors Medvedev, who can frustrate Rune from the baseline and now–with his newfound attacking clay game–can turn that into offense in ways the Dane just can’t handle. This match may feel like it’s on Rune’s racket at times, but Medvedev will control it all the way through. That’s a recipe for victory for the Russian.
Prediction: Medvedev in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
