Fourth seed Grigor Dimitrov of Bulgaria will face Nicolas Jarry of Chile in the Geneva Open on Saturday. Dimitrov got the better of Taylor Fritz in a thrilling semifinal, while Jarry beat former-world #3 Alexander Zverev in straight sets. The 32-year-old Dimitrov, who won his last ATP singles title in 2017 (though it was at the ATP Finals), has only won one of his eight career titles on clay. Here are two things to watch out for ahead of the final:
Jarry’s power may trouble Dimitrov
Jarry can generate exceptional power, especially with his forehand, from the baseline. Dimitrov will have to defend well against Jarry’s groundstrokes. The Chilean played some good approaches with his forehand before rushing the net to finish off points with volleys against Fritz.
He can follow the same tactic against the Bulgarian in the final. Moreover, Jarry also used the drop shot to good effect. Hence, Dimitrov will have to be prepared to move to the net at regular intervals.
Dimitrov to rely on his slice
Dimitrov used the backhand slice extensively to take the pace off the ball against Fritz to not allow the latter generate power with his forehand. He might try it against Jarry as well. If Dimitrov can play his backhand slice across the court towards Jarry’s backhand, it will not allow the Chilean to employ his powerful forehand.
The Bulgarian will also have to serve well, as he might find it difficult to break Jarry, who has got a powerful serve as well. However, Dimitrov’s big-match experience can prove to be useful in the final. The Bulgarian does not have too many years left in the top and should try to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.
Main photo credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
