This year’s ATP Den Bosch Open has been hit by consistenly inclement weather, but we’ve managed to reach the final on Sunday just about unscathed. And we’ve got a terrific match in prospect as the in-form top seed Alex de Minaur faces the big-hitting Sebastian Korda. Who will lay his hands on the title at the Libema Open?
ATP Den Bosch Final Prediction
Alex de Minaur vs Sebastian Korda
Head-to-head: De Minaur 2-1 Korda
De Minaur is seeking his second career title on grass. The Australian was a champion in Eastbourne three years ago and came up short in last year’s final at Queen’s when he lost to a red-hot Carlos Alcaraz. De Minaur has continued his great track record of reaching the final Sunday of a grass-court tournament, not dropping a set all week in Den Bosch. He’s accounted for wins over Zizou Bergs, former Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic, and the high-flying Ugo Humbert.
Korda, meanwhile, is looking for only his second ATP title and a first on grass. The American made quite the admission last year when he proclaimed himself as one of the favorites to win Wimbledon, only to underperform massively on the lawns. Korda made sure not to make a similar mistake of putting the weight of pressure on his shoulders this season. He’s gone about his business quietly and assuredly. He’s eliminated two top seeds, including the defending champion Tallon Griekspoor, in the semifinal.
Weather permitting, this should be a closely contested final. De Minaur is the more experienced player in this matchup, having played more matches on grass, and has a title to show for his efforts on his impressive resume. While grass courts are generally the fastest on tour, favoring hyper-aggressive and huge servers like Korda, the cooler conditions tend to make the ball heavier. The American’s success rate with his shot selection will probably fall just below his high standards, as De Minaur’s mobility and excellent return of serve will give him the advantage to lift his ninth career title.
Prediction: De Minaur in 3
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
