After a few surprises at the ATP 250 in Umag on Wednesday, the action heats up on Day 4 as all of the stars compete to try and reach the quarterfinals. Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka features, while a popcorn match between youngster Jiri Lehecka and Dominic Thiem will take place after its postponement from Wednesday. LWOT predicts the outcomes of these matches, with four new matches playing out on Thursday in addition to Lehecka and Thiem’s feature.
ATP Umag Day 4 Predictions
Jaume Munar vs Fabian Marozsan
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both players would agree that clay suits them best, making this matchup interesting. Of course, Marozsan is known for his stunning win over Carlos Alcaraz in Rome, and he’s been able to follow that up relatively well; he won an ATP Challenger title in Perugia and made his Grand Slam debut in Wimbledon. Munar perfectly fits the definition of a veteran on tour, with his solid game enough to keep him consistent in the Top 100. His backhand is rock solid under pressure, and his confidence on clay courts make him a formidable threat. The Spaniard picked up a nice upset win over Albert Ramos-Vinolas, a similarly ranked counterpuncher. That confidence should help him in this match, as Marozsan’s lack of consistent experience will hurt him.
Prediction: Munar in 3
Stan Wawrinka vs Federica Coria
Head-to-head: First meeting
Could this be an opportunity for Wawrinka to pick up yet another ATP title? He has a nice draw this week and seems to have picked up his form in the past months. His straight-sets loss to Djokovic at Wimbledon was a disappointment, but his backhand seems to have improved, along with his ferocious forehand. Wawrinka did suffer a surprise loss to Munar, but he was able to pick up the doubles title with fellow Swiss compatriot Dominic Stricker. Meanwhile, Coria is a tough player who excels with his defense and stamina. This seems like a similar matchup to Wawrinka vs Lunar from last week, but the Swiss icon will definitely learn from his mistakes to improve.
Prediction: Wawrinka in 2
Taro Daniel vs Roberto Carballes Baena
Head-to-head: 2-2
For two relatively journeyman-esque players, the two have quite the rivalry record with four matches already played. Additionally, the two have played doubles before, over five years ago. Daniel possesses a slightly better array of weapons, and has the ability to commit to both offense and defense. On the other hand, Carballes Baena is more consistent defensively and probably feels the more comfortable of the two on clay. Daniel won this matchup earlier this year in Indian Wells, and he’ll have the confidence to go far this week. While Carballes Baena is a seed with a bye, there are definitely skeptics with his game after he retired last week against Wawrinka. This should certainly favor Daniel, factoring in his latest win and his momentum this week.
Prediction: Daniel in 2
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Lorenzo Sonego vs Marco Cecchinato
Head-to-head: First meeting
This is a fantastic prospect of a match, featuring one of the best Italian players now, versus an Italian star past his prime. Writing off Cecchinato is impossible, as his suitability to clay makes him a threat anytime. Despite never playing against one another officially, both players will definitely be aware of each other’s game and should be able to capitalize on weaknesses. The edge has to go to Sonego with his ranking and experience, but Cecchinato definitely has a shot. He’ll have to hit deep balls consistently, forcing Sonego to miss shots he’d usually make. Sonego also possesses a strong first serve, and Cecchinato will have to be on his A-game on return.
Prediction: Sonego in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
