We are down to two finalists at the ATP Newport Infosys Hall of Fame Open. No. 2 seed Adrian Mannarino will look to secure his third career ATP title with a win over up-and-coming American star Alex Michelsen. We at LWOT have the preview and prediction for this battle. But who will hoist the trophy?
ATP Newport Final Prediction
Adrian Mannarino vs Alex Michelsen
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Young American Alex Michelsen needs one more win to cap off the week of his life. The 18-year-old was ranked No. 250 in the world just two weeks ago. A win on Sunday would bring him up to a career-best mark of No. 118. Michelsen won the Chicago Challenger last week and brings a nine-match win streak into this final. In what is just his third tour-level event, the California native has been unfazed by everything thrown at him this week.
Michelsen will square off against veteran Frenchman Adrian Mannarino. The No. 2 seed has dropped just one set this week, showing why he favors the grass as his most comfortable surface. Mannarino has been rock solid on return and is adept at forcing his opponent into playing two or three extra balls to finish a point.
Michelsen’s nerves will be at an all-time high in his first career ATP final. Mannarino, playing his 13th career final, should look to take advantage of the American’s nerves and jump over him early. However, I do not expect Michelsen to go down without a fight. The variety he brings is tremendous and could certainly trouble the Frenchman. That said, I see Mannarino raising his level when it matters most. His experience will bring him his third ATP title.
Prediction: Mannarino in 3
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch – USA TODAY Sports
